Russia's statement on the results of the third round of direct talks with Ukraine

Vladimir Medinsky, head of the Russian Federation delegation, stated the results of the third round of resumed direct talks between Russia and Ukraine in Istanbul. The statement reads as follows:

All agreements on humanitarian issues raised in the previous round of talks have been implemented. On the Ukrainian-Belarusian border, the exchange of the last group of prisoners of war, about 250 people from each side, is being completed. Also, the second large-scale and unprecedented exchange of about 1,200 people from each side is being completed. The two sides agreed that shortly, another exchange of at least 1,200 prisoners of war from each side will be held. The exchange of the wounded and seriously ill will also continue without a time limit on the conflict lines.

Russia proposed the creation of three working groups in the political, humanitarian, and military spheres, which would operate online and with the participation of relevant experts from military institutions. The Ukrainian side promised to consider this proposal.

Once again, the Ukrainian side was offered to consider the possibility of establishing short-term ceasefires (24-48 hours) on the front lines of the battle for the transfer of the wounded and bodies.

Russia handed over more than 7 thousand bodies (from the Ukrainian armed forces) to the Ukrainian side, and in return, returned a small number of bodies of its soldiers. It was also proposed to hand over about 3 thousand more bodies of Ukrainian troops to this country.

The issue of returning civilians displaced as a result of the fighting was also raised. Not all residents of the Kursk region, who were “evacuated” by Ukrainian forces into Ukrainian territory, have yet to return to their homes. Their number is small, about 30 people, and Ukraine is still holding them.

The two sides have been reviewing their positions, as outlined in previous notes, for a considerable time. These positions are still far apart. However, it was agreed to continue contacts.

A list of 339 Ukrainian children has been thoroughly reviewed. Some of these children have been returned to Ukraine, and the process is ongoing for the rest. If their legal parents, close relatives or legal representatives are identified, they will be returned home immediately.

Medinsky also said in response to the media on the topic of the summit: "To hold such a meeting, the terms of the final agreement must first be worked out in detail. Such a meeting should be the final point of the negotiations. A meeting to re-discuss the issues is meaningless.