Russia-Ukraine War / What ceasefire conditions did Russia put forward during bilateral talks, see the list

Russia-Ukraine War: Just a day after Ukraine's major drone attack on Russia on June 01, pre-scheduled bilateral talks took place between the two countries in Istanbul. The meeting was not just a formality—it discussed some points that could change the direction of the war. Vladimir Medinsky, representing Russia, while addressing the press after the talks, clarified that Russia has handed over a detailed two-part list of conditions to Turkey.

Russia's peace offer or diplomatic pressure?

According to Medinsky, the first part includes measures to establish permanent peace, while the second part focuses on the practical form of the ceasefire. The Ukrainian side has taken this memorandum for further review, indicating that the talks have not completely failed.

In this initiative, Russia has offered to hand over the bodies of its 6,000 dead soldiers to Ukraine as a humanitarian step. This is a unilateral decision, which highlights a sensitive aspect amid the brutality of war.

All for all: The biggest prisoner exchange

A major point of the talks was the exchange of prisoners under the 'all for all' principle. This includes the exchange of seriously injured, sick and soldiers under the age of 25. It is estimated that at least 1,000 prisoners from both sides will be exchanged. With this step, some relief can be expected in the war on humanitarian grounds.

Limited ceasefire: Strategy or mercy?

Russia has proposed a short-term ceasefire for 2-3 days in the border areas, so that the bodies of Ukrainian soldiers lying there can be collected and they can be given a respectful farewell. This proposal also shows a flexibility in Russia's war policy, but the strategic objectives behind it cannot be denied.

Children's issue: Truth and politics

Medinsky rejected Ukraine's claims of "1.5 million children being kidnapped", saying the number had dropped from 2 million, then 2 million and now 20,000 to just 339 names. Russia claims these children were not forcibly taken away but rescued from the war zone. According to Russia, 101 children have been reunited with their families.

This statement suggests that the children's issue may have also been used as a propaganda strategy to gain international sympathy. However, independent investigation and transparency are necessary to bridge the gap between reality and allegations.

Cold expectations in the heat of talks

The Istanbul talks indicate that both sides are still open to dialogue at some level. While Russia has taken the initiative on both humanitarian and strategic aspects, Ukraine's stance has so far been cautious but open.