Brief by Shorts91 Newsdesk / 06:54pm on 16 May 2025,Friday International
For the first time since March 2022, Ukrainian and Russian officials met face-to-face in Istanbul for direct talks. Though deep divisions prevented a breakthrough on ceasefire terms—Russia demanded Ukraine withdraw from its own territory—both sides agreed to a 1,000-prisoner swap. The discussions, facilitated by Turkey and the U.S., were brief but marked a rare diplomatic opening amid the ongoing war. Ukraine called the swap “excellent news” for families. While Moscow expressed satisfaction, concerns remain that Russia may be stalling to delay sanctions. U.S. presidential candidate Donald Trump claimed only his talks with Putin would produce real results. (PC: EPA-EFE)
