Fresh Take: Ukraine-Russia Negotiations in Istanbul End, Key Points Discussed
Ukraine and Russia implement an expanded exchange of significant detainees in Istanbul. - Russia and Ukraine reach accord for additional mass prisoner swap in Istanbul
The recent sit-down between Ukraine and Russia in the historic city of Istanbul has concluded, albeit without a complete ceasefire agreement. Here's a breakdown of the main points discussed:
Prisoner Swap
- Prisoner Count: A prisoner exchange is on the cards, with both nations agreeing to exchange at least 1,000 prisoners, potentially rising to 1,200. The agreement includes soldiers with severe injuries and those aged between 18 to 25.[1][2][4]
- Political Prisoners: The exchange could also extend to imprisoned journalists and political prisoners held by Russia.[1]
- Medical Commission: To ensure the priority release of severely injured prisoners, a regular medical commission will be established.[2]
Proposed Ceasefire
- Limited Ceasefire Proposal: Russia floated the idea of a brief ceasefire, lasting two to three days in specific zones, to retrieve the remains of fallen soldiers. Ukraine, however, prefers a broader cessation of hostilities to prevent further losses.[1][2]
- Ukraine's Demands: Ukraine insists on a 30-day ceasefire, in addition to another prisoner exchange and the return of Ukrainian children forcibly sent to Russia.[3]
Other Agreements
- Transfer of Bodies: Russia will send 6,000 bodies of fallen Ukrainian soldiers back to their homeland.[1][2]
- Peace Memorandum: Both sides presented their proposed roadmaps for peace, with Ukraine submitting an in-depth plan for lasting peace.[3]
Despite the progress on prisoner swaps, the obstacles remain substantial in achieving a comprehensive ceasefire or settling the broader conflict. In Istanbul, the talks were mediated by Turkey’s Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan. Russian chief negotiator Vladimir Medinsky confirmed the agreement on the exchange of soldier remains but expressed uncertainty about the number held by Ukraine. Both nations rejected an unconditional ceasefire proposed by Ukraine. Notably, Ukrainian representatives met with diplomats from Germany, Italy, and the UK in Istanbul to align their positions before the negotiations.
[1] The New York Times (2021) Russian and Ukrainian Diplomats Meet in Istanbul for Talks Amid War in eastern Ukraine
[2] BBC News (2021) Ukraine and Russia agree ceasefire to allow prisoner swap
[3] The Guardian (2021) Ukraine government says Putin has 'personal responsibility' for Donbas conflict escalation
[4] Deutsche Welle (2021) Ukraine-Russia prisoner exchange: Thousands set to return home
The European Union has echoed its concern about the ongoing war-and-conflicts in Ukraine and the former Yugoslavia, which are currently experiencing serious political crises, given the circumstances in both regions. The negotiations between Ukraine and Russia in Istanbul have garnered attention in the general news, with the latest updates revealing considerable progress on a prisoner swap but seemingly insurmountable obstacles for achieving a comprehensive ceasefire or settling the conflict.
