MWE Correspondent
Russia and Ukraine have reached an agreement during peace talks in Istanbul to exchange 1,000 prisoners from each side — one of the largest such agreements since the beginning of the war.
The negotiations concluded on a constructive note, with both parties agreeing to put forward detailed proposals for a ceasefire, signaling a possible thaw in hostilities. Head of the Russian delegation, Vladimir Medinsky, said Russia was “satisfied” with the results and remains open to future dialogue.
Ukraine’s delegation, led by senior officials under the office of President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, echoed cautious optimism, noting the mutual exchange of prisoners as a goodwill gesture ahead of more substantive discussions.
Ukraine also proposed a direct meeting between the presidents of both nations — a suggestion that Russia said it had “taken note of,” but did not immediately commit to. Observers say such a summit could be pivotal if held, especially in a neutral host country like Turkey, which has played a balancing role throughout the conflict.
Medinsky, who previously served as Russia’s Minister of Culture and is now a close adviser to President Vladimir Putin, emphasized the importance of mutual respect and detailed planning going forward.
Also Read; Gold Mining Halted in Congo Over Tax Dispute
He confirmed that both delegations had agreed to document their respective frameworks for halting the conflict, which has now dragged on for over two years.
Meanwhile, international reactions have been cautiously supportive. Alexander Stubb, the President of Finland, stated during his state visit to Africa that “dialogue is the only durable path to peace.” He called on global leaders to continue pressuring both sides toward diplomacy.
The Russian invasion, which began in February 2022, has led to tens of thousands of casualties, the displacement of millions, and global economic disruptions. Efforts at brokering peace have been attempted by the United Nations, China, and Turkey, with mixed success.
Ukrainian officials noted that while they appreciate the opening created by the prisoner swap, they remain firm on issues of territorial integrity, particularly concerning Crimea and the Donbas region.
“The door to diplomacy is not closed,” said a Ukrainian government spokesperson. “But any path forward must be based on sovereignty and international law.”
