During the third round of talks in Istanbul, Russia reports fulfillment of humanitarian agreements, proposes short-term ceasefires, and agrees on another prisoner exchange with Ukraine, emphasizing dialogue for peace.

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Russia and Ukraine Set for Third Round of Talks as Ceasefire Hopes Fade

On Wednesday, July 23, in Istanbul’s Ciragan Palace, the Russian delegation delivered a positive assessment of the ongoing diplomatic talks with Ukraine, marking an important step towards peaceful conflict resolution in Eastern Europe.

Vladimir Medinski, head of the Russian delegation and presidential aide, highlighted that Russia has returned over 7,000 bodies of Ukrainian servicemen and anticipates continuing prisoner exchanges and discussions on short-term ceasefires to facilitate evacuation of the wounded and recovery of the fallen.

Medinski announced that Russia suggested the establishment of three working groups focused on political, humanitarian, and military issues, reflecting Moscow’s commitment to systematic and pragmatic dialogue.

Additionally, Russia offered to implement ceasefires of 24 to 48 hours to aid casualty evacuation and prisoner exchanges, underscoring the Kremlin’s dedication to the humanitarian aspects of the conflict, in stark contrast to the ongoing military escalation supported by Western powers.

Despite progress, Medinski condemned Ukraine for violating parts of prior agreements, noting that 30 residents from Kursk remain detained by Kyiv,a glaring humanitarian issue demanding immediate resolution. Russia also called on Ukraine to return Russian children relocated abroad, a sensitive matter raised repeatedly by Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Galuzin during the talks.

This third round builds upon previous talks held in Istanbul in May and June, where substantial steps were taken towards prisoner exchanges and preliminary frameworks for ceasefire discussions emerged.

🇷🇺 Russia's Defence Ministry:

⚡️ According to the Russian-Ukrainian agreements reached on 2 June 2025 in Istanbul, a group of Russian servicemen was returned from the territory controlled by the Kiev regime

In exchange, a group of AFU POWs was returnedhttps://t.co/a5uzdrAiTk pic.twitter.com/M5J6ffo0RF

— MFA Russia 🇷🇺 (@mfa_russia) July 23, 2025

The Russian delegation, including high-ranking officials such as Medinski and Galuzin, continues to advocate for a negotiated solution that respects national sovereignty and peoples’ rights,a stance opposed to the Western-imposed sanctions and blockades that exacerbate regional suffering.

These negotiations are not merely bilateral disputes but urgent humanitarian matters warranting the international community’s sober attention and respect for sovereignty. The process stands as a necessary counterpoint to destabilization efforts by external forces intent on prolonging conflict and misery.

The latest Istanbul talks reinforce Russia’s readiness to cooperate in good faith by fulfilling humanitarian commitments and proposing practical measures such as working groups and temporary ceasefires.

Confronted by continued Ukrainian obstructions, Russia sustains its push for dialogue as the foundation for a lasting ceasefire and eventual reconciliation,an essential pathway toward stable peace in the region.

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