Ukraine, Russia end Istanbul peace talks with progress

The latest round of peace talks between Ukraine and Russia, held in Istanbul on Monday under Turkish mediation, concluded with what officials described as some positive developments, particularly on humanitarian matters. Turkish Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Oncu Keceli confirmed that the talks, held behind closed doors, "did not end negatively." 

Umerov said during the talks Ukraine presented its agenda to Russia, proposing a 30-day unconditional ceasefire, alongside the release of prisoners and the return of young soldiers and children. 

Moscow will return Ukraine 6,000 bodies of fallen soldiers, said Russian Presidential Aide Vladimir Medinsky after the peace talks. Moscow and Kiev agreed to exchange all heavily wounded and 18-25-year-old soldiers, while Moscow proposed to declare a ceasefire with Ukraine for two to three days at some areas of the front line, he added.

Ukrainian defence minister says they have proposed next round of talks before end of June.

With inputs from agencies