Russia and Ukraine agree on prisoner exchange

 Diplomats from the two countries met face to face in Istanbul, Turkey, for the first time in three years since the start of the Russo-Ukrainian war.

Foreign reports have indicated that the meeting raised some hopes for an end to the worst war in Europe since 1945.

However, Russian President Putin, who had proposed holding peace talks in Turkey, did not attend.

Ukrainian President Zelensky also reportedly did not attend the talks in protest at Putin’s absence.

The talks, which lasted less than two hours, failed to reach an agreement on a ceasefire or cessation of hostilities as expected.

The two countries have also agreed to exchange prisoners of war.

Accordingly, foreign reports indicate that 1,000 prisoners of war will be released from each side.

 However, a date for the prisoner exchange has been set, but has not yet been disclosed. 

Ukraine has said that the next step in the talks should be between the presidents of the two countries. 

The Russian side has also said that it is satisfied with the talks and expects to continue the talks. 

However, some parties are expressing the opinion that this may be just an attempt by Russia to avoid being subject to new European sanctions. 

In this context, US President Donald Trump has expressed the opinion that it is essential for him to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin to establish a lasting peace between the two countries.