Russia, Ukraine discuss more POW swaps; no deal on ceasefire or leaders' meeting

Russian delegation head and presidential adviser, Vladimir Medinsky walks, after a meeting at Ciragan Palace on the day of the second round of peace talks between Russia and Ukraine, in Istanbul, Turkey, June 2, 2025. REUTERS/Murad Sezer/File Photo

ISTANBUL (Reuters) -Russia and Ukraine discussed further prisoner swaps on Wednesday at a brief session of peace talks in Istanbul, but the sides remained far apart on ceasefire terms and a possible meeting of their leaders.

"We have progress on the humanitarian track, with no progress on a cessation of hostilities," Ukraine's chief delegate Rustem Umerov said after talks that lasted just 40 minutes.