What's happened
Recent negotiations in Istanbul between Ukraine and Russia have failed to produce a ceasefire, with both sides remaining far apart on key issues. Ukraine continues prisoner exchanges and calls for peace, while Russia signals no de-escalation, intensifying attacks amid ongoing conflict.
What's behind the headline?
The recent Istanbul talks underscore the deepening deadlock in Ukraine-Russia negotiations. Russia's Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov has dismissed hopes for breakthroughs, emphasizing Russia's intent to pursue its objectives without a set timeline. Ukraine, led by Zelenskyy, remains committed to prisoner exchanges and the goal of a future leaders' meeting, but the core issues—territorial cessions and military support—remain unresolved. The ongoing attacks, including Russian drone strikes and territorial advances, suggest that Russia is unlikely to de-escalate without significant concessions from Ukraine. The diplomatic process is likely to remain stalled unless external pressures or internal shifts in Russian or Ukrainian politics alter the current dynamics. The conflict's persistence continues to threaten regional stability and prolongs suffering for civilians, with no immediate resolution in sight.
What the papers say
Al Jazeera reports that recent negotiations in Istanbul have failed to produce a ceasefire, with Russia signaling no intention of de-escalating and continuing air strikes against Ukraine. Ukrainian President Zelenskyy emphasized ongoing prisoner exchanges and the importance of diplomacy, but noted Russia must end the war. The Moscow Times highlights that Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov has dismissed hopes for breakthroughs, citing the complexity of negotiations and Russia's focus on achieving its objectives. Both sources agree that the talks are unlikely to lead to immediate peace, with ongoing military actions and entrenched positions on both sides. The contrasting tone reflects the persistent deadlock: Al Jazeera emphasizes Ukraine's diplomatic efforts and ongoing suffering, while The Moscow Times underscores Russia's firm stance and strategic objectives.
How we got here
Since Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, multiple rounds of peace talks have taken place, primarily in Istanbul. While prisoner exchanges have occurred, negotiations have failed to reach a ceasefire or end the conflict. Russia's military advances and territorial claims have complicated diplomatic efforts, with recent meetings highlighting the persistent divide.
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Dmitry Sergeyevich Peskov is a Russian diplomat, translator and Turkologist. Since 2012, Peskov has been the Press Secretary for the President of Russia, Vladimir Putin.
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