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Putin and Trump Skip Peace Talks in Turkey, Leaving Zelenskyy in Limbo
Putin and Trump Skip Peace Talks in Turkey, Leaving Zelenskyy in Limbo
16 tháng 5 2025
A Missed Opportunity for Peace in Istanbul
The highly anticipated peace talks in Istanbul between Russia and Ukraine failed to meet expectations on Thursday, as both Russian President Vladimir Putin and former U.S. President Donald Trump decided not to attend. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who was under pressure to join the discussions, remained skeptical and demanded Putin’s direct presence for any meaningful progress.
Kremlin Sends Delegation, But No Putin
Earlier in the week, Putin had expressed willingness to hold “direct negotiations without preconditions” with Zelenskyy in Turkey. However, on Wednesday night, the Kremlin confirmed a delegation—without including Putin himself.
When questioned by reporters about the Russian president's attendance, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov initially dodged the topic. But by Thursday, his response was definitive: “No.”
The Russian delegation, headed by presidential aide Vladimir Medinsky, included Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Galuzin, Deputy Defense Minister Alexander Fomin, and senior military official Igor Kostyukov. Despite Putin’s absence, he reportedly held late-night strategy meetings with top Russian officials regarding the talks.
Trump Urges Ukraine to Meet, But Stays Away
Former President Donald Trump, who had been vocal about pushing Ukraine to negotiate, also opted out of attending. Instead, senior U.S. envoys Steve Witkoff and Keith Kellogg, along with Secretary of State Marco Rubio, were dispatched to Istanbul.
Posting on Truth Social, Trump wrote: “Ukraine should agree to meet with Russia immediately… At least they will be able to determine whether or not a deal is possible.” He added, “I’m starting to doubt that Ukraine will make a deal with Putin. HAVE THE MEETING, NOW!!!”
Zelenskyy: Russia Not Taking Talks Seriously
Arriving in Ankara to meet Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, President Zelenskyy criticized the composition of Russia’s delegation, saying it showed a lack of seriousness.
“I don’t know the official level of the Russian delegation, but from what we see, it’s not a serious level,” Zelenskyy told reporters. “We will decide our next steps after discussions with President Erdogan.”
He also questioned whether the Russian negotiators had any real authority to make decisions, suggesting that all major calls are still made by Putin personally.
The Ukrainian delegation included Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba, intelligence officials, and presidential aides, signaling that Kyiv was open to dialogue, but on serious terms.
What Lies Ahead for Russia-Ukraine Peace Talks?
Despite hopes that Istanbul might offer a fresh opportunity for peace in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, the absence of key leaders has cast doubt on the process. Analysts believe that while diplomatic activity is important, the lack of top-level commitment undermines any real progress.
The war, now entering its third year, has left devastation across Ukraine and caused ripple effects in global politics and energy markets. Any genuine peace deal will require firm, direct engagement from leaders on all sides.
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