In a potential diplomatic breakthrough, Russia and Ukraine may hold their first direct peace talks in years—but major questions remain over whether the key power players, Vladimir Putin and Donald Trump, will actually attend.
The talks are scheduled for Thursday in Istanbul, following a bold proposal by Russian President Vladimir Putin for direct negotiations “without any preconditions.” However, the Kremlin has not confirmed who will represent Russia at the table. Even Putin’s spokesperson admitted they were still awaiting instructions from the president himself.
Adding to the suspense, former U.S. President Donald Trump—who has taken a highly active role in pushing for a truce—has not confirmed his attendance either. While Trump has publicly called for Ukraine to participate, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy responded by agreeing to attend, but only if Putin does too. This sets the stage for a political standoff that’s as much about optics as peace.
Speaking aboard Air Force One en route to Qatar on Wednesday, Trump told reporters, “Putin would like me to be there, and that’s a possibility… I don’t know that he would be there if I’m not there. We’re going to find out.” His comments added fuel to the uncertainty surrounding the summit.
Trump is advocating for a 30-day ceasefire—the first pause in what is now the largest land conflict in Europe since World War II. Reports also suggest a major prisoner exchange could be discussed during the meeting. Zelenskiy has expressed support for an immediate truce, while Putin insists talks must happen first before any ceasefire terms are decided.
Frustrated by what he sees as stalling from both sides, Trump has hinted at imposing secondary sanctions on Russia if they block peace efforts. U.S. officials are considering financial penalties, including sanctions on countries that continue buying Russian oil.
A Ukrainian diplomatic source told Reuters that the final decision on attending would hinge on whether Putin is brave enough to appear in Istanbul. “Everything depends on whether Putin is scared of coming or not. Based on his response, Ukraine will decide what to do next,” the source stated.
If the meeting happens and includes both leaders, it would be their first face-to-face engagement since December 2019. The last direct talks between Russian and Ukrainian negotiators were held in Istanbul back in March 2022, shortly after the war began.
Speculation continues over who might be in the Russian delegation. Reports suggested Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov and senior advisor Yuri Ushakov might go, but credible sources such as Russia’s Kommersant newspaper claim Lavrov has already bowed out.
Despite all the mystery, one thing is confirmed: the Russian delegation will be in Istanbul on May 15, waiting. Whether Putin himself joins them—and whether Trump turns his “maybe” into a “yes”—could determine if peace talks mark a turning point, or just another missed opportunity.
