**Trump Skips Ukraine-Russia Peace Talks as Putin Sends Lower-Level Delegation**
U.S. President Donald Trump will not attend the upcoming peace talks between Ukraine and Russia, according to an unnamed U.S. official. The talks are scheduled to take place on May 15 in Istanbul, Turkey.
Despite calls from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky for Trump to join the negotiations, the U.S. president has decided to send his special envoys, Steve Witkoff and Keith Kellogg, instead. This decision comes as Russian President Vladimir Putin is also skipping the talks, sending a delegation that is notably lower-level compared to previous meetings.
**Russia’s Delegation Falls Short**
The Kremlin announced that their delegation will be headed by presidential advisor Vladimir Medinsky, who has been known for his propaganda efforts. The group will also include Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Galuzin, Director of Russian Military Intelligence Igor Kostyukov, and Deputy Defense Minister Alexander Fomin.
Notably missing from the delegation is Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov, a key player in previous Ukraine-Russia talks. This decision has raised eyebrows among analysts, who see it as an attempt by Putin to avoid direct negotiations with Zelensky.
**Zelensky Calls for Trump’s Presence**
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky had invited both Trump and Putin to the peace talks, citing his desire for a stronger international presence at the negotiations. In his address on May 11, Zelensky expressed hope that Trump would attend the meeting, saying it could be a “strongest argument” in favor of reaching a peace deal.
Meanwhile, Trump has hinted at possible additional sanctions against Russia if they fail to reach an agreement with Ukraine. This move comes as part of the U.S.’s ongoing efforts to pressure Moscow into finding a peaceful resolution to the conflict.
**What’s Next for Ukraine-Russia Talks?**
The absence of Trump and Putin from the peace talks may raise concerns about the effectiveness of the negotiations. However, Zelensky has expressed his determination to pursue a peaceful resolution with Russia, despite the challenges ahead.
The situation remains fluid, with many questions unanswered. Will Russia’s delegation be able to negotiate in good faith? Can Ukraine and Russia find common ground without the presence of top leaders? These are just some of the uncertainties that will play out over the coming days as the peace talks unfold.
Read More @ kyivindependent.com
