Ukrainian and Russian Delegations Gather in Turkey Amid Uncertainty over Talks

Fears mount regarding the potential meeting as both nations send representatives to Turkey, but confusion persists over their attendance.

Ukrainian and Russian delegations have arrived in Turkey with hopes for a new round of negotiations aimed at ending the ongoing conflict. However, the uncertainty surrounding whether the two sides will actually meet has prompted skepticism.

On Thursday morning, journalists assembled outside Dolmabahce Palace, a historical venue on the Bosporus that previously hosted talks back in March 2022. Reports from Russia's state news agency, Tass, indicated that discussions were planned there, but the prospects remained unclear as the day unfolded.

Amid intense media attention, a lack of clarity surrounded both the presence of the Ukrainian delegation in Istanbul and whether the Russian officials, including key figures, would participate. Tensions characterized this diplomatic effort, influenced heavily by the strategic calculations of President Vladimir V. Putin. When he first extended the proposal for negotiations in Turkey, President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine expressed willingness to engage. Meanwhile, even U.S. politicians such as President Trump hinted at their potential involvement, should pivotal leaders attend.

However, reports late Wednesday suggested that President Putin would not be attending since his name was conspicuously absent from the official guest list. Additionally, Ukrainian President Zelensky was unlikely to take part, as he was in Ankara for previously scheduled engagements including a meeting with Secretary of State Marco Rubio. This unforeseen development has left the future of these anticipated talks shrouded in ambiguity.