Istanbul Talks Resume Without Zelensky or Putin Amid Mutual Distrust

The first direct negotiations between Ukrainian and Russian delegations since 2022 are set to begin this Thursday in Istanbul—without Presidents Volodymyr Zelensky and Vladimir Putin. The absence of both leaders underscores the fragile state of diplomacy and the growing skepticism surrounding the peace process.

A Summit Without the Presidents

Delegations from Kyiv and Moscow are meeting in Istanbul in a renewed attempt to restart peace talks that have been stalled for over two years. However, the absence of both Volodymyr Zelensky and Vladimir Putin has already tempered expectations. According to Zelensky, the meeting “is not at the presidential level,” a response to what he sees as Russia’s persistent refusal to engage in direct talks between heads of state.

Speaking from Ankara after a meeting with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Zelensky confirmed that the Ukrainian delegation—led by Defense Minister Rustem Umerov—has been given a mandate to discuss a ceasefire. Still, he criticized Russia’s approach, calling their delegation a “farce” and accusing Moscow of failing to take the talks seriously.

The Kremlin, for its part, insists it is ready for “constructive discussions” and “possible compromises,” positioning the talks as a continuation of the failed Istanbul process of 2022.

Mutual Accusations and Cautious Diplomacy

As expected, the exchanges have been marked by mutual distrust. Kyiv sees Russia’s choice of delegates—mostly second-tier officials—as a sign of disrespect and a lack of genuine intent. In response, Russian officials scoffed at Zelensky’s non-attendance, claiming he was never invited and dismissing his stance as political theater. One senior Russian diplomat even described Zelensky’s behavior as “a performance more suited to an actor than a head of state.”

Meanwhile, Zelensky’s talks with President Erdogan in Ankara were described as “productive” and “positive” by Ukrainian officials. Turkey, which has positioned itself as a mediator throughout the war, is once again playing host in hopes of reviving dialogue. Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan expressed “reasons for hope,” while NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, also in Turkey, said he remained “cautiously optimistic” about the prospect of meaningful progress—if both sides are willing to engage sincerely.

From the U.S., President Donald Trump weighed in, saying he doesn’t believe any breakthrough is possible until he himself meets with Vladimir Putin. “Nothing will happen until he and I sit down together,” he told reporters during his trip to the Gulf region.

In a climate marked by symbolic gestures and veiled accusations, the Istanbul talks begin with more questions than answers. Whether they mark a first step toward peace or another diplomatic stalemate remains to be seen.