Ukrainian and Russian officials met face-to-face on May 16, 2025, at Turkey’s Dolmabahce Palace in Istanbul. This was their first direct meeting since 2022 amid ongoing conflict. The talks lasted under two hours and ended without an agreement on a 30-day ceasefire. Moscow demanded Ukraine withdraw from Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporizhzhia, and Kherson—territories partially controlled by Russia. Kyiv rejected these terms and insisted on an immediate and unconditional ceasefire.
Prisoner Exchange Agreement and Plans for Future Talks
Despite no ceasefire deal, both sides agreed to exchange 1,000 prisoners of war each. This marks the largest prisoner swap since the conflict began. Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan confirmed the two sides would meet again “in principle.” Ukrainian Defence Minister Rustem Umerov said discussions included a possible summit between the leaders. Russian aide Vladimir Medinsky added that both parties would prepare detailed ceasefire proposals for future negotiations. Turkey praised the talks as a rare moment of dialogue between the two nations.
International Reactions and Calls for Stronger Sanctions
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy briefed US, UK, French, German, and Polish leaders on the meeting’s outcome. He called for stronger sanctions against Russia if it refuses peace proposals and continues military aggression. Zelenskyy attended a security summit in Albania with European leaders during the talks. Meanwhile, former US President Donald Trump expressed readiness to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin “as soon as possible.” Speaking in Abu Dhabi, Trump said, “It’s time to do it,” urging direct negotiations to end the conflict.
The meeting signals ongoing diplomatic efforts despite deep disagreements. Experts note the prisoner exchange could build trust for future talks. Analysts say progress depends on both sides showing flexibility on territorial issues. The war has caused widespread humanitarian suffering and global economic impact.