With less than 48 hours remaining until a proposed high-stakes meeting between Russian and Ukrainian leaders in Istanbul, uncertainty clouds whether the talks will materialize. The scheduled negotiations, aimed at achieving a "durable peace," have drawn global attention amid mixed signals from both sides.
Russia’s Ambiguous Stance
The Kremlin confirmed its delegation is preparing but remains tight-lipped on key details. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stated, "We will announce [the delegation] when the president sees fit," declining to confirm whether President Vladimir Putin will attend. Russian officials have not addressed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s demand for direct talks with Putin, calling the delay "strange."
Ukraine’s Conditions
Zelenskyy reiterated that he will only meet Putin, not lower-level representatives. "Moscow has remained silent all day regarding the proposal," he said, pointing to ongoing Russian attacks on front lines. Despite the deadlock, Zelenskyy expressed gratitude to Turkey’s President Recep Tayyip Erdogan for diplomatic support and welcomed potential U.S. involvement, stating, "We would appreciate it if President Trump could be there."
Global Eyes on Diplomacy
Erdogan’s offer to host the talks and Trump’s surprise willingness to participate add complexity. Analysts note that the lack of clarity from Moscow raises doubts about Russia’s commitment. The meeting, if realized, would mark the first face-to-face discussion between Putin and Zelenskyy since 2019. As the clock ticks, the world waits to see if diplomacy can prevail over escalating tensions.
