The Ukrainian delegation arrived in Istanbul ready to discuss ending the war. In contrast, Russia sent representatives without real authority, according to a statement by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

The highly anticipated peace talks between Russian and Ukrainian delegations in Istanbul have ended abruptly after less than two hours, with no sign of progress. Ukrainian sources described Russia’s demands—reportedly including a withdrawal of Ukrainian troops from their own territory-as “unrealistic” and “detached from reality.