Russia Seeks Swift Victory Not Compromise In Ukraine Talks

Senior Russian security official Dmitry Medvedev stated that the recent peace talks in Istanbul with Ukraine were aimed not at reaching a compromise but at ensuring a swift and complete Russian victory, including the destruction of what he called the 'neo-Nazi regime.' The talks, which lasted only an hour, resulted in agreements on a new prisoner-of-war swap and the exchange of 12,000 dead soldiers but failed to secure a ceasefire, which Ukraine and its allies had demanded. Medvedev referenced a Russian memorandum demanding Ukraine hand over more territory, declare neutrality, limit its army, and hold new elections. In response to recent Ukrainian strikes on Russian strategic bomber bases, Medvedev warned of inevitable retribution and affirmed that Russian forces would continue their advances and eliminate their targets. Meanwhile, the US President has expressed frustration with Russia's actions but has yet to implement additional sanctions to compel peace negotiations. The conflict continues with ongoing military operations and diplomatic tensions.