Russia-Ukraine Peace Talks: A New Hope?

In an effort to reignite peace discussions, Russia hopes to agree with Ukraine on a date next week for a third round of talks, as stated by Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov on Friday. The Russian delegation, led by Kremlin aide Vladimir Medinsky, maintains contact with their Ukrainian counterparts.

After a break exceeding three years, both nations resumed negotiations in May and June with meetings in Istanbul. These efforts resulted in prisoner swaps and the return of soldiers' bodies, though achieving a ceasefire remains elusive. Ukraine, backed by Western powers, pushes for a ceasefire, while Russia insists on a comprehensive settlement, proposing terms Ukraine views as equivalent to surrender.

The conflict has escalated recently, marked by Russia's intensified airstrikes and Ukraine's strategic drone attacks, notably damaging Russia's nuclear-capable bomber fleet. These developments underscore the complexities and challenges facing the peace negotiation process.

(With inputs from agencies.)