Russian and Ukrainian delegations have started another round of direct talks in Istanbul, even as combat continues across multiple areas of the front, according to diplomats familiar with the discussions. The meeting underscores that diplomacy is still underway despite no sign of a broader pause in the war.

The talks come at a time when both sides remain locked in heavy fighting, limiting hopes for a quick breakthrough. While the latest round keeps channels of communication open, the ongoing violence on the ground highlights how far apart the two sides still are on core issues.

Istanbul has repeatedly served as a venue for difficult negotiations since the war began, but previous efforts have produced limited results. For civilians trapped by the conflict, each new meeting raises the same urgent question: whether diplomacy can deliver even a modest step toward reducing the human cost of the war.

So far, officials have not reported major public progress from the latest session. The outcome will likely depend on whether the two sides can agree on practical measures beyond simply continuing to talk.