**Russia’s Junior Delegation to Ukraine Peace Talks Sparks Outrage**
Russian President Vladimir Putin’s decision to send junior aides for peace talks with Ukraine in Istanbul has been met with scorn from Estonia and other European leaders. The comments come as Russian and Ukrainian officials are expected to hold talks in Istanbul on May 15, marking the first direct negotiations between the two parties since unsuccessful peace talks in 2022.
According to Estonian Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna, Putin’s decision is akin to a “slap in the face.” The Russian delegation will be led by Vladimir Medinsky, who headed the failed talks with Ukraine in 2022. Notably, Russia has declined an offer by President Volodymyr Zelensky to meet with Putin face-to-face.
**Criticism Mounts from NATO Allies**
The move has drawn criticism from Ukraine’s allies as NATO foreign ministers gather for a summit in Antalya, Turkey. Latvia’s chief diplomat, Baiba Braze, commented that there are no indications that Russia seeks peace in Ukraine. The absence of senior officials like Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov has further fueled skepticism.
**Ukraine Weighs Options**
A source close to the Presidential Office told the Kyiv Independent that Zelensky has yet to decide whether to meet Russian representatives despite Putin’s absence. Some media reported that Ukraine intends to hold the meeting anyway in order to discuss a 30-day ceasefire.
**U.S. President Trump Offers Optimism**
However, U.S. President Donald Trump has expressed optimism about the talks and suggested he might join on May 16 if progress is made. Trump has pledged to broker a ceasefire between Moscow and Kyiv. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Trump’s special envoy, Steve Witkoff, are reportedly set to join the discussions.
**Kremlin Spokesperson Denies Putin’s Involvement**
Russian President Vladimir Putin will not visit Istanbul for a meeting with President Volodymyr Zelensky on May 15, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said. The decision has been seen as an attempt by Russia to downplay its commitment to the negotiations.
**Diplomatic Tensions Escalate**
The tensions surrounding the peace talks come amidst reports of increased military activity between Russian and Ukrainian forces. Ukrainian forces have downed 62 out of 100 Shahed-type attack drones launched by Russia, according to the Air Force.
As NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte emphasized, there is a window of opportunity for progress this week or in the next two weeks. However, with Russia’s junior delegation set to meet with Ukraine, it remains unclear whether meaningful negotiations will take place.
**Key Takeaways**
* Russian President Vladimir Putin has sent junior aides for peace talks with Ukraine in Istanbul.
* Estonian Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna termed this decision a “slap in the face.”
* Ukrainian forces have downed 62 out of 100 Shahed-type attack drones launched by Russia.
* U.S. President Donald Trump may still join the discussions on May 16 if progress is made.
Read More @ kyivindependent.com
