Pakistan, July 24 -- Russia and Ukraine have resumed peace talks in Istanbul, aiming to end a war now in its fourth year. The negotiations come amid mounting international pressure, including a 50-day ultimatum from U.S. President Donald Trump for Russia to end hostilities or face new sanctions. Despite the high stakes, the Kremlin has warned against expecting quick results.

Turkey's Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan opened the talks by calling for an urgent ceasefire. "Our aim is to end this bloody war as soon as possible," he said, urging both sides to move toward lasting peace. The last two meetings, held in May and June, led only to prisoner and body exchanges.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov acknowledged the road ahead would be "very di...