The Kremlin emphasized that before any new peace talks can be considered, both Ukraine and Russia must fulfill prior commitments made during their recent meeting in Turkey—the first direct talks in over three years. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov stated that the focus must now be on completing a prisoner-of-war exchange, involving 1,000 captives from each side. This swap was a key agreement from the Istanbul negotiations, and Russia insists it must precede any further diplomatic steps or meetings.
Trump Plans Call with Putin as Civilian Deaths Undermine Ongoing Peace Efforts
Amid these developments, former U.S. President Donald Trump announced he will speak with Russian President Vladimir Putin to discuss ending the conflict. Scheduled for Monday, the call is expected to focus on halting the war, which Trump claims is resulting in over 5,000 casualties per week.
Trump also plans to talk with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and NATO leaders. Zelensky had previously challenged Putin to meet in person, but the Russian president sent delegates instead, signaling a hesitancy to engage directly without preliminary agreements in place.
Despite the diplomatic efforts, hostilities have continued unabated. A Russian drone strike in Ukraine’s Sumy region killed nine civilians and injured seven, highlighting the continued civilian toll. Other deadly attacks occurred in Kherson and Kharkiv, with casualties mounting due to shelling and airstrikes.
These incidents occurred in parallel with the peace talks, casting doubt on Moscow’s commitment to de-escalation. Ukrainian officials noted that Russian aggression has intensified in border regions recently retaken by Russia.
Global Pressure Mounts as Talks Stall and Russia Demands Recognition of Annexed Territories
Ukrainian and European leaders have called for a more decisive international response if the Istanbul talks fail. Zelensky, speaking at a European summit in Albania, criticized Russia’s delegation as weak and ill-prepared, urging Western allies to impose tougher sanctions if meaningful progress is not made.
French President Emmanuel Macron echoed this sentiment, calling for “real steps” from Russia and pledging coordination with the U.S. on additional punitive measures should Moscow continue to delay a ceasefire agreement.
While both Moscow and Washington have expressed the need for a high-level meeting, significant obstacles remain. Russia has made firm territorial demands, seeking recognition of its annexation of five Ukrainian regions, including Crimea. Ukrainian officials have labeled these demands as “unacceptable.”
Meanwhile, the Kremlin has raised doubts about Zelensky’s legitimacy as president, citing the expiration of his official term, a move seen as undermining Ukraine’s negotiating position. Without resolution on these issues, the prospect for genuine peace remains uncertain.