Zelenskyy Calls for Stronger Sanctions Against Russia After Istanbul Talks

Following high-stakes talks in Istanbul, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy addressed the media in Vilnius, Lithuania. He announced that a new prisoner exchange was in the works, facilitated by Turkey. "They exchanged documents through the Turkish side, and we are preparing a new release of prisoners of war," Zelenskyy stated. However, he also issued a warning, emphasizing the need for increased international pressure on Russia. "If Russia turns the Istanbul meeting into an empty talk, there must be a new level of pressure, new sanctions," he said, urging for joint action at the G7 level and beyond. The press conference highlighted the ongoing diplomatic efforts to de-escalate the conflict and the importance of international cooperation in achieving a peaceful resolution.