Uncertainty continues to cloud the highly anticipated peace talks between Ukraine and Russia, which are expected to be held in Istanbul. While Russian state news agency Tass reported that the discussions were scheduled to begin at 0700 GMT (10 a.m. local time), Ukrainian officials have disputed this timeline.
Andrij Kowalenko, a representative of the Ukrainian National Security and Defense Council, clarified via Telegram that no official time had been set and described the Tass report as inaccurate, according to dw.com
Despite this ambiguity, members of the Russian delegation — notably excluding senior figures such as President Vladimir Putin — have reportedly arrived in Istanbul. Their presence suggests some movement toward dialogue, yet the absence of top-level leadership has drawn criticism.
Putin, who initially proposed the talks, has declined a face-to-face meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Turkey. Zelenskyy has openly stated that if Putin does not attend personally, it raises serious questions about Russia’s commitment to a genuine peace process.
At a separate event in Turkey, NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte expressed measured hope that diplomatic progress could be achieved in the coming weeks. “I’m cautiously optimistic,” Rutte remarked during an informal meeting of NATO foreign ministers, “but it requires that Russia, not just Ukraine, take the necessary steps.”
“Ukraine has clearly shown its readiness to commit to a ceasefire and enter immediate negotiations. Now, the ball is in Russia’s court,” he added.
Estonian Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna, who also participated in the NATO meeting, criticized Moscow’s decision to send only a low-ranking delegation. “It’s like a slap in the face,” he said, echoing concerns that the Kremlin may not be approaching the talks with genuine intent.
In parallel diplomatic developments, the European Union has introduced new sanctions targeting Russia’s so-called ‘shadow fleet’ — a covert maritime network used to bypass international trade restrictions.
The evolving situation highlights both a potential opportunity for peace and the fragile trust underlying current diplomatic efforts. For now, the international community watches closely as Kyiv awaits meaningful engagement from Moscow.
