
Istanbul Talks: Prisoner Exchange Agreed, but Peace Remains Elusive
The recent meeting between Russian and Ukrainian delegations in Istanbul, facilitated by Vladimir Putin, marks a significant step in the ongoing conflict. The key outcome was an agreement for a large-scale prisoner exchange, a move hailed by some as a sign of progress, while others remain cautious. The New York Times reported on the prisoner exchange, highlighting its significance as the first direct talks in years. However, the lack of further progress on peace negotiations has led to differing interpretations of the event's success. Professor John J. Mearsheimer, a leading expert in international relations, commented on the situation, suggesting that the war may continue for some time. This meeting, while not a complete breakthrough, represents a small step towards de-escalation and a potential path to future negotiations.