NEW DELHI: Russian and Ukrainian delegations are scheduled to meet on Monday in Istanbul for their second round of direct peace negotiations since 2022. The talks come a day after Ukrainian forces targeted several of Moscow’s nuclear-capable bombers, and there remains little indication that the two sides are any closer to a resolution.

The discussions are expected to center on proposals for a comprehensive ceasefire and a broader roadmap toward lasting peace, though deep divisions persist. U.S. President Donald Trump has added to the pressure by threatening to withdraw support from the talks if no progress is made.

Moscow’s chief negotiator, Vladimir Medinsky, confirmed that Russia had received a draft peace proposal from Ukraine. It remains unclear whether Kyiv has been given Russia’s version. Ukraine’s delegation will be led by Defence Minister Rustem Umerov.

Their previous meeting in Istanbul on May 16 led to the largest prisoner exchange of the conflict, with each side releasing 1,000 detainees. However, the talks produced no tangible progress on a ceasefire or peace agreement, as both delegations merely outlined their initial positions.

Kyiv continues to view Russia’s stance as an effort to force its surrender—something Ukrainian officials insist will not happen. Meanwhile, Moscow, emboldened by its fastest battlefield gains in six months, argues that Ukraine must accept peace on Russian terms or risk further territorial losses.

Speaking in Lithuania on Monday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said that achieving a ceasefire and addressing humanitarian concerns—particularly the repatriation of more Ukrainian prisoners—would be key priorities at the Istanbul meeting.

Ukraine has reiterated its readiness for direct talks between President Zelenskyy and Russian President Vladimir Putin when the circumstances are right.

Despite widespread skepticism about a breakthrough, a Ukrainian official told Reuters that Kyiv is prepared to make genuine progress toward peace—provided Russia demonstrates flexibility and a willingness to move beyond repeated ultimatums.

In preparation for the talks, Ukrainian representatives also held consultations with officials from Germany, Italy, and the United Kingdom to align their negotiating positions.