Russia and Ukraine are set to restart direct peace negotiations in Istanbul, Türkiye, marking the third round of high-level discussions after a seven-week pause. The Ukrainian delegation, led by National Security and Defense Council Secretary Rustem Umerov, arrived Wednesday for talks that are expected to focus on prisoner exchanges, the release of abducted children, and a potential leaders’ summit.

Kremlin spokeswoman Dmitry Peskov cautioned that progress would be “very difficult,” warning against expecting “miraculous breakthroughs” given the deep-rooted differences between the parties. Russia maintains its demand for Ukrainian territorial concessions and military limitations, which Ukraine regards as unacceptable ultimatums.

Previous Istanbul talks in May and June resulted in prisoner and remains exchanges, but failed to achieve a ceasefire or broader peace. Persistent Russian military advances—such as in Sumy region—and ongoing Ukrainian strikes underscore the gravity on the ground.

With mounting U.S. pressure, including threats of steep tariffs under a 50-day ceasefire ultimatum, Ukraine continues to press for substantive outcomes—while Russia remains steadfast in pursuing its core objectives.