Russia summarizes Istanbul talks and confirms major prisoner exchange
Vladimir Medinsky, aide to the Russian President (Getty Images)
Ukraine and Russia have concluded talks in Istanbul. Notably, the sides agreed on the largest prisoner exchange since the start of the full-scale war, according to the head of the Russian delegation and aide to the Russian President, Vladimir Medinsky.
"Overall, we are satisfied with the outcome and ready to continue the dialogue," Medinsky said.
According to him, Ukraine and Russia will carry out a large-scale prisoner exchange in the coming days in a 1,000 for 1,000 format.
Medinsky also added that Ukraine "requested direct negotiations" between President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and President Vladimir Putin. This request, he said, "was taken under advisement."
The head of the Russian delegation also said that Ukraine and Russia agreed to present their respective visions for a possible ceasefire, with each side outlining its position in detail.
"Once those proposals are presented, we believe – and this was also agreed – that it would be appropriate to continue our negotiations," Medinsky clarified.
Ukraine-Russia talks in Istanbul
Ukrainian and Russian officials met today, May 16, for just over an hour to discuss issues related to ending the war.
Following the talks, Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov, who led the Ukrainian delegation, stated that Ukraine and Russia may carry out a prisoner exchange involving 1,000 people on each side.
More details about the negotiations can be found in the RBC-Ukraine report.
