The Kremlin has officially stated that presidential aide Vladimir Medinsky will lead the Russian delegation, highlighting the ongoing tensions. Zelensky had expressed willingness to meet face-to-face, stressing the urgency of halting the violence that has escalated since the invasion in early 2022.
Putin Absent from Turkey Peace Talks as Zelensky Prepares for Meeting

Putin Absent from Turkey Peace Talks as Zelensky Prepares for Meeting
In a significant turn of events, Russian President Vladimir Putin will not attend the upcoming peace talks in Istanbul concerning the Ukraine crisis, despite calls for his presence from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky.
Zelensky, who is traveling to Ankara for discussions with President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, emphasizes the need for a ceasefire. Meanwhile, Donald Trump has proposed his potential involvement in the talks, further complicating the geopolitical landscape. With the backdrop of continuous conflict, the dynamics of these discussions are critical for the future of Ukraine and its relationship with Russia.
Russian President Vladimir Putin will not participate in the peace talks set to take place in Istanbul, Turkey, on Thursday, according to a Kremlin announcement. Instead, the Russian delegation will be headed by presidential aide Vladimir Medinsky, despite Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's eagerness for a personal meeting. Zelensky has committed to attending the talks and meeting with other key diplomatic figures, including President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.
Zelensky last met Putin in December 2019, and since then, direct negotiations between the two nations have stalled due to ongoing military conflict. Zelensky recently reiterated his dedication to peace efforts, stating on social media that he would wait for Putin in Turkey, urging action to prevent further deaths.
The U.S. is expected to send a high-level delegation as part of these talks, with Secretary of State Marco Rubio already in Turkey. Trump's mention of potentially joining the talks adds a layer of complexity to the situation. While discussions commence around the future of Ukraine, the absence of Putin raises questions about the prospects for resolution.
Russian President Vladimir Putin will not participate in the peace talks set to take place in Istanbul, Turkey, on Thursday, according to a Kremlin announcement. Instead, the Russian delegation will be headed by presidential aide Vladimir Medinsky, despite Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's eagerness for a personal meeting. Zelensky has committed to attending the talks and meeting with other key diplomatic figures, including President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.
Zelensky last met Putin in December 2019, and since then, direct negotiations between the two nations have stalled due to ongoing military conflict. Zelensky recently reiterated his dedication to peace efforts, stating on social media that he would wait for Putin in Turkey, urging action to prevent further deaths.
The U.S. is expected to send a high-level delegation as part of these talks, with Secretary of State Marco Rubio already in Turkey. Trump's mention of potentially joining the talks adds a layer of complexity to the situation. While discussions commence around the future of Ukraine, the absence of Putin raises questions about the prospects for resolution.