Russia, Ukraine agree in Istanbul to exchange 1,000 prisoners each: Ukrainian defense minister

The Russian and Ukrainian delegations in Istanbul, Türkiye, agreed on Friday to exchange 1,000 war prisoners each, Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov told Ukrainian TV after talks.

Russia is "satisfied" with the results of the first direct peace talks with Ukraine in years and ready for future discussions, Moscow's top negotiator said Friday.

"Overall, we are satisfied with the results and ready to continue contacts," Kremlin aide Vladimir Medinsky told state TV reporters, adding that once each side had exchanged ideas on a possible ceasefire, negotiations could continue.

Russia has taken note of the Ukrainian side's request for direct talks between the leaders of the states, he added.

Another round of talks between the Russian and Ukrainian delegations in Istanbul on Friday is "possible," AFP reported, citing a senior Ukrainian official, who added that none was planned.

"If they receive other instructions from Moscow, then it is possible that something will happen today," the source said after negotiations ended, adding that "so far it is not planned."

(With input from agencies)