Ukraine and Russia Resume Peace Talks Amid Low Hopes and Mounting Pressure

Russian and Ukrainian officials have resumed direct peace talks in Istanbul, marking the first such negotiations in several weeks.

Despite renewed efforts, including proposals for a face-to-face meeting between Presidents Zelenskyy and Putin, both sides remain deeply divided on key issues, and expectations for a breakthrough are low. The talks come as fighting intensifies in Ukraine and as international actors, including the US and President Trump, increase pressure for a ceasefire. The Kremlin insists that Russia's core objectives must be met before any peace agreement, while Ukraine continues to push for immediate negotiations and a potential leaders' summit.

Overall, the prospects for a swift resolution remain dim, with both sides signaling little willingness to compromise.