🌍 The world is watching as Thursday’s proposed Ukraine-Russia peace talks in Istanbul hang in the balance. With just hours left, key players remain tight-lipped—raising questions about whether diplomacy will prevail or collapse.
📌 The Backdrop
Russian President Vladimir Putin proposed the talks last Sunday, aiming to address the roots of the conflict. While Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Turkish leader Recep Tayyip Erdogan expressed support, U.S. involvement via former President Donald Trump added a wildcard twist. But the clock is ticking, and doubts linger.
🇷🇺 Russia’s Position
The Kremlin confirmed preparation for talks but kept its cards close. Spokesperson Dmitry Peskov stated, "We’ll announce [our delegation] when the president sees fit." Putin’s attendance remains unconfirmed, leaving Ukraine wary of negotiating with lower-level officials.
🇺🇦 Ukraine’s Stance
Zelenskyy insists on meeting Putin directly, refusing substitutes. In his nightly address, he called Moscow’s silence "strange" amid ongoing attacks, tweeting: "A meeting in Türkiye could change a lot." He also welcomed Trump’s potential involvement, tagging Erdogan’s mediation as critical.
⏳ The Verdict?
With no official delegation lists, unresolved demands, and frontline violence continuing, hopes for progress dim. Zelenskyy’s team emphasizes, "Only Putin can deliver peace." As tensions simmer, Thursday’s talks risk becoming a diplomatic ghost town. Stay tuned.
