So, Russia and Ukraine are still as far apart as ever, with the two warring countries unable to make a significant breakthrough in direct talks in Istanbul. While there was agreement to exchange more prisoners,

After Ukraine’s drone strikes on Russian air bases, the two sides talked for less than an hour in Istanbul, and a halt to the fighting seems out of reach for now.

A key ally to Vladimir Putin has admitted Russia will only accept a complete victory over Ukraine in a major blow to the US’s efforts to end the war. US president Donald Trump has been trying to fulfil his election campaign promise to end the Ukraine conflict ever since he returned to office in January.