Russia-Ukraine Peace Talks Stall As Moscow Presents Harsh Demands

Istanbul – Hopes for a swift resolution to the conflict between Russia and Ukraine dimmed as the latest round of direct negotiations in Istanbul concluded with Moscow presenting what many are calling “hard-line” demands. The negotiations took place against a backdrop of intensified conflict, including ukrainian raids on Russian air bases far from the border, which some initially believed might soften Russia’s stance. However, the new proposals suggest otherwise, highlighting Russia’s central role in dictating the terms of any potential ceasefire.

Moscow’s Conditions For Ceasefire

russia is demanding that Kiev withdraw its troops from the four partially occupied regions of Donetsk, Lugansk, Zaporizhzia, and Kherson, effectively surrendering control to Moscow’s forces. Alternatively, Russia has proposed a complete demobilization of Ukrainian forces and an end to all foreign military aid.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr zelensky has responded by appealing to former U.S. President Donald Trump to impose further sanctions on Russia, hoping to compel them to cease hostilities. Zelensky made this plea during an intervention in Vilnius at a summit of NATO countries on the eastern flank.

Zelensky Seeks International Support

“We Really Expect Trump To Adopt Strong Measures,” said President Zelensky,emphasizing the need for increased international pressure. He also indicated that if the Istanbul talks fail to yield progress, new penalties from the European Union and the United States would be crucial.

The memorandum presented by the Russian delegation outlines two potential paths to a ceasefire.the first, as mentioned, involves Ukraine relinquishing control of the four contested regions. The second option includes the demobilization of Kiev’s forces, revocation of martial law, exclusion of foreign troops from Ukraine, cessation of foreign military aid, and the holding of elections within 100 days of martial law being lifted.

Political Conditions Remain Stiff

The conditions for a political resolution are equally stringent. Russia seeks international recognition of its annexation of the four regions, plus Crimea, which was annexed in 2014. Furthermore, Moscow insists on Ukraine declaring neutrality, thereby forgoing any aspirations to join NATO. Russia also demands a ban on military activities by other states within Ukraine and strict limitations on the size and capabilities of the Ukrainian armed forces.

Rustam Umerov, the head of the Ukrainian delegation and Minister of Defense, stated that Kiev would study the Russian memorandum in the coming weeks.

Umerov also reiterated the call for a 30-day ceasefire and a summit between Zelensky, Russian President Vladimir Putin, and potentially Trump. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has offered to host such a summit in Turkey.

The White House has indicated that President Trump is open to a summit if both leaders are prepared to engage constructively. The Ukrainian side suggested a timeframe between June 20 and June 30 for the potential meeting. However, Russian negotiators have maintained that a summit would only be productive after concrete progress is made in the delegation-level talks.

Prisoner Exchange Agreement Reached

despite the disagreements on broader peace terms, Vladimir Medinsky, the head of the Russian negotiators, announced an agreement for the “greatest exchange of prisoners” since the conflict began. This exchange will prioritize the release of seriously injured and sick military personnel, as well as those under 25 years of age.Medinsky also proposed a temporary, localized cessation of hostilities to allow for the recovery of fallen soldiers’ bodies.

Discussions On Ukrainian Children

the issue of Ukrainian children, who Kiev accuses Moscow of deporting to Russia, was also addressed.Umerov stated that a list of several hundred children had been provided, and the return of even half would be viewed as a positive step. Medinsky acknowledged receiving a list of 339 names but insisted that thes children were “saved” by Russian soldiers, not kidnapped.He assured that they would be returned to their parents or guardians when found. Moscow recently returned 101 children to Kiev, while Ukraine returned 22 in a reciprocal gesture.

Prior to and following the talks at the Ciragan Palace, the Ukrainian delegation consulted with officials from the United Kingdom, France, Germany, and Italy. Fabrizio Eggio, diplomatic councilor to Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, and his deputy, Pietro Sferra Carini, represented Italy during these consultations.

Key Proposals At A Glance