Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has appointed a delegation to engage in peace talks with Russia in Istanbul, signaling potential new prisoner-of-war (POW) swaps. The delegation, led by National Security and Defense Council Secretary Rustem Umerov, will include representatives from Ukraine’s military intelligence, the Foreign Ministry, and the Presidential Office.
The decision to seek direct negotiations comes amid ongoing tensions between Ukraine and Russia, particularly following recent military actions and the humanitarian crisis in occupied territories. Zelensky’s administration has emphasized the importance of securing humanitarian corridors and addressing the welfare of captured soldiers through these talks.
The presence of military intelligence representatives suggests that the discussions will focus on practical aspects such as POW exchanges, territorial disputes, and the status of occupied regions. The Foreign Ministry’s involvement indicates a broader diplomatic strategy aimed at garnering international support and maintaining Ukraine’s position on the global stage.
A key aspect of the negotiations is expected to be the humanitarian angle, with both sides likely to discuss the conditions for the release of captured soldiers and the establishment of safe passage routes for civilians. While the specifics of the talks remain confidential, the involvement of high-level officials underscores the significance of this diplomatic initiative.