**Russian President Putin Stays Behind the Scenes in Peace Talks**
The Kremlin has confirmed that Russian President Vladimir Putin will not attend the Istanbul peace talks he himself proposed. This decision signals Moscow’s control over the negotiations and highlights Putin’s strategy of keeping a safe distance while still holding the reins.
According to CNN, Putin is the one calling the shots in these peace negotiations. Just recently, the Kremlin rejected a US-EU-backed 30-day ceasefire initiative and instead proposed a new round of talks in Istanbul. Ukrainian President Zelenskyy accepted the talks and publicly stated that he would wait for Putin there, emphasizing that only the Russian president has the authority to make final decisions.
However, today’s confirmation by Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov that Putin will not attend the peace talks is a clear sign that Moscow is still in control. While Ukraine and its allies speak about applying pressure on Russia, Vladimir Putin once again showed that he will act on his own timetable and terms.
**What it means**
This move by Putin is a classic example of how he maintains power and influence while keeping a safe distance from direct negotiations. By staying behind the scenes, Putin can control the pace and tone of the talks without being held accountable for any potential breakthroughs or setbacks. This strategy also allows him to maintain his image as a strong leader who will not be pressured into making concessions.
In essence, Putin’s absence in Turkey shows that he is still very much in charge of the peace negotiations, dictating the terms and timing of Ukraine’s talks. This situation raises questions about how meaningful these negotiations can be without direct engagement from both parties’ leaders.
**The Implications**
The implications of this development are significant. It suggests that Putin is willing to keep the talks going as long as they serve his interests, rather than making genuine efforts towards a peaceful resolution. The international community must now consider whether these negotiations are truly moving forward or just a way for Moscow to stall and gain time.
As the world watches these developments closely, one thing becomes clear: Vladimir Putin is still very much in control of Russia’s strategy on Ukraine, and his absence in Turkey only reinforces this reality.
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