So, Russia and Ukraine are still as far apart as ever, with the two warring countries unable to make a significant breakthrough in direct talks in Istanbul. While there was agreement to exchange more prisoners,

Ukraine’s Deputy Foreign Minister Sergiy Kyslytsya confirmed Russia had rejected an unconditional ceasefire, instead offering a “specific ceasefire for two to three days in certain areas of the front line,” which Russia claimed was for collecting the bodies of fallen soldiers.

Ukraine’s daring “Operation Spiderweb” drone strike on June 1st, which reportedly destroyed or damaged up to 40 Russian strategic bombers deep inside Russia, has significantly altered the diplomatic landscape.