Negotiations in Istanbul, Zelensky's visit to Albania. Main news for May 16.

The Ukrainian and Russian delegations held talks on a ceasefire. Defense Minister Rustem Umerov noted that they discussed the possibility of a '1000 for 1000' exchange. Such an exchange is planned 'in the nearest future', but no exact date has been specified. The possibility of a meeting between the leaders of the countries - Zelensky and Putin - is also being considered.

Russia has made unrealistic demands, including the withdrawal of Ukrainian troops from a number of regions. Zelensky emphasized that the level of the Russian delegation for such negotiations is similar to a sham. The prisoner exchange in the format of '1000 for 1000' has been confirmed, the Russians are satisfied with the negotiation results and are ready to continue contacting Ukraine.

In the morning of May 16, searches were conducted at the residence of Poroshenko's advisor Konstantin Yeliseyev. The actions took place within the framework of the case regarding the Kharkiv agreements. The bodies of 909 fallen defenders have been repatriated. As a result of the joint work of various Ukrainian structures, defenders were returned from certain directions and morgues in the Russian Federation.

Zelensky participated in the summit of the European Political Community. The President emphasized that Ukraine is ready for realistic steps to end the war, but noted that Putin showed fear of visiting Turkey. A witness confirmed the bribery in the case of MP Marchenko. He explained that he gave a bribe to Marchenko's assistant in two parts of $3,000 each.

Analysis

The Ukrainian and Russian delegations continue negotiations on a ceasefire, prisoner exchange, and other conflict-related issues. Zelensky is actively participating in the preparation and conduct of negotiations, emphasizing realism and readiness for a peaceful resolution of the conflict. Russian demands have been recognized as unrealistic, which may complicate reaching an agreement.