Why Is Zelensky Skipping Istanbul Peace Talks?

Ankara, May 16 (NationPress) Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced that he will not participate in the forthcoming peace discussions with Russia in Istanbul. However, Kyiv plans to dispatch a delegation headed by Defence Minister Rustem Umerov as part of a renewed effort to mitigate the ongoing conflict.

During a press conference at the Ukrainian Embassy in Ankara, following discussions with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Zelensky reaffirmed Ukraine's commitment to dialogue but expressed skepticism regarding Moscow's intentions.

"Regrettably, we do not perceive any decision-makers among those representing the opposing side," Zelensky stated to reporters.

Despite his concerns, Zelensky confirmed that Ukraine will take a constructive approach by sending representatives to the negotiations to avert further escalation, as reported by Xinhua news agency.

"I have decided to send our delegation to Istanbul," he remarked.

"Some key figures will not be present -- specifically, the head of the Security Service, Vasyl Malyuk, and the Chief of the General Staff, Andriy Hnatov -- but the delegation will be led by Defence Minister Rustem Umerov. He will be accompanied by professionals, including military and intelligence personnel."

Zelensky indicated that the schedule for the talks is still being finalized, but they are expected to occur either Thursday or Friday.

"The delegation has been dispatched. Turkey's delegation is prepared," he affirmed.

"It could be today, it could be tomorrow."

The upcoming discussions in Istanbul will represent the first direct negotiations between Kyiv and Moscow since the onset of the Ukraine conflict in 2022.

In a separate statement at a NATO Foreign Ministers' meeting in Antalya, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan expressed optimism that the Istanbul meeting could signify a pivotal moment.

"I hope the talks in Istanbul will initiate a new chapter for us," Fidan commented.

"After three years of hardship, we now perceive a window of opportunity."

Fidan noted that both Russia and Ukraine have ostensibly shown a willingness to consider a ceasefire, albeit under differing conditions.

He emphasized that meaningful discussions will necessitate compromises from both sides.

"Intense diplomatic efforts are underway in Ankara, Antalya, and Istanbul," he stated.

"If peace is the objective, both parties must be prepared to make concessions."

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, who was also present at the NATO meeting, remarked that Washington backs a negotiated resolution.

"We will see what unfolds at the Istanbul peace talks, but we are eager for progress," he indicated.

French Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot stated that Paris is advocating for an "urgent" and "unconditional" ceasefire.

The Istanbul discussions follow a proposal by Russian President Vladimir Putin to resume direct negotiations with Ukraine.

Zelensky has previously expressed his willingness for a face-to-face meeting with Putin.

However, the Kremlin has announced that Putin will not attend the Thursday discussions, with Russia represented instead by Presidential aide Vladimir Medinsky.