- Trump will not attend Turkey talks despite earlier considerations.
- Russian delegation lacks high-level representation, drawing Ukrainian criticism.
- Zelenskyy to meet Erdogan first, with ceasefire calls expected.
Trump's Absence Confirmed
Former US President Donald Trump will not be joining the Russia-Ukraine peace talks in Turkey, despite previously indicating he was "thinking" about attending if Russian President Vladimir Putin participated. A US official confirmed Trump's absence shortly after Moscow announced its delegation would be led by presidential aide Vladimir Medinsky rather than Putin himself.
Ukrainian Skepticism Over Russian Team
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy dismissed the Russian delegation as "theatrical" upon arriving in Ankara, noting the absence of top-level officials. "What is the level of the Russian delegation, and what mandate do they have?" Zelenskyy questioned, suggesting real decision-making power remains solely with Putin. The Russian team includes deputy foreign minister Galuzin Mikhail Yuryevich and deputy defense minister Alexander Fomin - the same composition that represented Moscow in failed 2022 Istanbul talks.
Diplomatic Protocol Unfolds
Zelenskyy will first hold separate discussions with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, who is expected to push for an immediate ceasefire. The format of subsequent Ukraine-Russia negotiations remains unclear, though Ukrainian officials had previously stated there would be "no point" in talks without Putin's direct involvement. Medinsky, leading his second major negotiation attempt since the invasion began, faces skepticism about his delegation's authority to make binding agreements.
Market observers note the talks come as global energy markets remain volatile, with Brent crude futures fluctuating amid the diplomatic developments. The Turkish lira showed little immediate reaction to the news, trading at 32.15 against the dollar in afternoon trading.