Putin Snubs Talks, Zelensky Sends Top Official Instead: Historic Russia-Ukraine Summit in Istanbul!

2025-05-16 12:01:13.259

Direct talks between Russia and Ukraine commenced in Istanbul, marking the first face-to-face negotiations between the two countries at any level since the beginning of the war in March 2022. The absence of both Presidents Vladimir Putin and Volodymyr Zelensky is noteworthy. Zelensky criticized Putin for not sending "real decision-makers," while Putin, despite initially suggesting the talks, ultimately chose not to attend. The US, represented by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, expressed low expectations for a breakthrough, while Germany's Chancellor Merz pledged new sanctions against Moscow in response to Putin's absence. The talks are focused on a ceasefire, a possible meeting between Zelensky and Putin, and broader peace negotiations. The Ukrainian delegation, led by Defense Minister Rustem Umerov, emphasized the need for a complete and unconditional ceasefire, the return of deported children, and prisoner exchanges, while the Russian delegation, headed by Kremlin aide Vladimir Medinsky, highlighted the removal of the "root causes" of the conflict as a key objective. Public opinion in Ukraine ranged from cautious optimism to deep skepticism, with many expressing doubt about the possibility of a genuine breakthrough. Donald Trump's potential involvement was also a significant factor, with varying opinions on his influence and the possibility of a future meeting between him and Putin.