Putin and Trump leave Zelenskyy in the dust, skipping peace talks in Turkey
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Putin Not Named in Russia's Delegation to Ukraine Peace Talks
Above: Russian President Vladimir Putin pictured in Moscow on May 13, 2025. Image copyright: Alexander Kazakov/Sputnik/Pool/Contributor via Getty Images
The Spin
Pro-Ukraine narrative
After Putin's decision to snub the talks, President Zelenskyy will first meet Erdogan, Turkey's leader, before deciding on whether talks will move forward.
Pro-Russia narrative
Russia has sent an experienced delegation of negotiators — including a top aide to President Putin and other high-ranking experts — to Istanbul in anticipation of talks with Ukraine. Putin never promised to attend personally.