Overview

• The first direct peace talks between Russia and Ukraine since 2022 ended without a ceasefire agreement after less than two hours in Istanbul.
• Both sides agreed to exchange 1,000 prisoners of war each in what would be the largest swap since the conflict began, with implementation expected soon.
• Russia demanded Ukraine withdraw troops from four regions it claims before agreeing to a ceasefire, a condition Kyiv and its allies rejected as unacceptable.
• Fresh violence included a Russian drone strike on a civilian bus in Sumy, killing nine people, and shelling in Kherson, injuring multiple civilians and damaging homes.
• U.S. President Donald Trump plans calls with Vladimir Putin and Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Monday to push for a ceasefire, while Turkey pledges to continue its mediation efforts.