Ukraine and Russia Discuss Ceasefire and Prisoner Exchange in Istanbul Talks

Ukraine and Russia hold talks in Istanbul amid ongoing war. The head of the Ukrainian delegation, Rustem Umerov, gave a short statement to reporters following the discussions at the Dolmabahce Palace. He confirmed that the talks focused on the possibility of a ceasefire and a large-scale prisoner exchange, potentially involving a 'thousand for a thousand' swap. The possibility of a meeting at the level of the leaders of the states was also raised. The negotiations took place amidst ongoing tensions between the two countries and the involvement of other international partners. Umerov's statement provided a glimmer of hope for de-escalation and a resolution to the conflict. "We held talks with our partners, and their goal was to discuss a ceasefire and the subsequent exchange of prisoners," Umerov stated.