Ukraine and Russia ended the second round of peace talks

The second round of peace talks in Istanbul between Russia and Ukraine didn`t result in a ceasefire. However, the sides agreed on a large prisoner exchange and flexibility in sanctions.

During the talks in Istanbul, Ukraine proposed a full ceasefire with Russia, a complete prisoner exchange, the return of abducted children, and the release of all civilian captives.

Ukraine also called for international guarantees to prevent renewed aggression and affirmed its intention to join the EU and NATO if member consensus allows.

Kyiv said it is open to gradually lifting sanctions on Russia, but only with a mechanism to reinstate them if needed. Frozen Russian assets should fund Ukraine’s reconstruction and reparations.

Defense Minister Rustem Umerov led Ukraine's 14-member delegation, including military, legal, and human rights officials not involved in earlier negotiations. He also met Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan before the talks.

Russia’s delegation, headed by Vladimir Medinsky, has not submitted a formal peace proposal. Ukraine plans to present a detailed roadmap for a lasting settlement.

12 emergency workers injured in Zaporizhzhia Oblast due to the Russian double-tap attack

Twelve emergency workers were injured on June 2 after Russian FPV drones struck a State Emergency Service building and vehicles in the Stepnohirsk community, Zaporizhzhia Oblast, Governor Ivan Fedorov reported.

The attack occurred just 5 kilometers from the front line and included a second strike during evacuation efforts. One victim is in critical condition; others sustained moderate injuries.

Despite being in a shelter, the rescuers were wounded, and fire trucks were damaged. The State Emergency Service condemned the assault as a targeted attack on first responders.

President Zelensky is calling on President Trump to impose stricter sanctions if the peace negotiations with Russia come to a halt

President Volodymyr Zelensky on June 2 called on U.S. President Donald Trump to increase sanctions against Russia if the Istanbul peace talks do not yield progress.

Speaking at a summit of the Bucharest Nine and Nordic leaders in Vilnius, Zelensky said that if Russia continues to stall, the West must respond with decisive measures — especially sanctions targeting oil exports, shipping, and the financial sector.

The Istanbul talks are expected to include Ukraine's step-by-step peace plan, beginning with a 30-day ceasefire and the return of deported children. Russia has not submitted a formal proposal and continues to demand a halt to Western military aid.

Zelensky reiterated Ukraine’s commitment to progress and thanked allies for their support. He also urged NATO to stay firm against Russian pressure and reaffirmed Ukraine’s right to join the alliance.