The first high-level talks between Russia and Ukraine since the early months of Moscow's 2022 invasion showed they are far from agreement on steps needed for a ceasefire, even though they promised a major swap of prisoners of war.

The first direct peace talks in years between Kyiv and Moscow ended on May 16 with Russia once again rejecting an unconditional 30-day ceasefire. In turn, Russia demanded that Ukrainian troops leave four of the country's regions,

U.S. President Donald Trump reported a productive call with Russian President Vladimir Putin, initiating immediate peace negotiations with Ukraine. Despite previous failed talks in Istanbul, Trump aims to host discussions at the Vatican with Pope Leo.