The first direct talks between Russia and Ukraine since the early weeks of the war lasted just two hours in Istanbul on Friday and only agreed on a prisoner swap — a sign the two sides remain very far apart over ending the conflict.

Russia and Ukraine's peace talks in Istanbul ended quickly, achieving only a POW swap while calls for a ceasefire were rejected.- Watch Video on English Oneindia

Russia and Ukraine’s first direct talks in three years began Friday with hopes as dim as the gray Istanbul skies.