In July of 1951, peace talks began between the UN and the Communists. The UN hoped for a quick resolution of the peace talks; however, that was not to be. The talks dragged on for two years; and all during that period, the war continued. The war soon became an extension of the peace talks. It was used by both sides to put pressure on the other. Unfortunately, for the soldiers dying, it did not matter why they were being shot.