Russia, Ukraine Resume Second Round Peace Talks After Major Drone Strikes

Russia and Ukraine are set to hold their second round of direct peace talks in Istanbul amid ongoing hostilities and recent escalations, including a significant Ukrainian drone attack on Russian strategic airbases. The talks follow an initial meeting in mid-May that resulted in a large prisoner swap but no ceasefire or peace agreement. Ukraine aims to prioritize a full ceasefire, humanitarian issues such as prisoner returns, and the return of stolen children, while Russia insists on negotiations running alongside continued military operations and demands Ukraine submit to its terms. Ukrainian officials enter the talks with a readiness to take significant steps toward peace, seeking a serious engagement from Russia without ultimatums. Turkey continues to play a central mediating role, hosting the trilateral meetings and facilitating dialogue between the parties. Despite the tense backdrop and low expectations for a breakthrough, both sides are exchanging peace proposals and maintain a nominal commitment to dialogue.