Ukraine-Russia Peace Talks in Turkey Stumble
High-level diplomats convened in Turkey on May 15, 2025, to negotiate an end to Russia’s war in Ukraine, but expectations for a breakthrough remain low. The talks, facilitated by Turkey’s neutral stance, aim to halt the bloodshed that has persisted since Russia’s 2022 invasion. However, Russian President Vladimir Putin’s absence and Ukraine’s cautious approach, led by President Volodymyr Zelensky’s delegation, have dampened hopes for immediate progress. U.S. President Donald Trump and Putin are seen as pivotal figures in any potential deal, yet conflicting agendas complicate the process. Ukraine insists on the restoration of its territorial integrity, including Crimea and Donbas, while Russia demands recognition of its annexed territories. Trump’s recent push for a 30-day ceasefire, backed by Kyiv, was rebuffed by Putin, who views the talks as a Western ploy to weaken Russia’s position. Turkish mediators have struggled to bridge these gaps, with analysts noting that Putin’s reluctance …
