Putin Snubs Zelenskyy, Sends Aide to Crucial Ukraine Peace Talks

Peace talks between Ukraine and Russia are underway in Istanbul, Turkey. The talks, which began on May 15, 2025, have been marked by a notable absence: Russian President Vladimir Putin. Instead, Putin sent a top aide to lead the Russian delegation, a decision that has raised questions about Russia's commitment to the negotiations. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy had directly challenged Putin to participate in person, emphasizing the importance of direct engagement in resolving the conflict. ABC News Chief Foreign Correspondent Ian Pannell, reporting from Istanbul, noted that the decision to send an aide rather than Putin himself signals a lack of urgency or seriousness on the part of Russia. Pannell stated, "On many levels, it's not a huge surprise that Putin didn't come. There has always been a question about how serious Russia is about these talks." The report underscores the ongoing nature of the conflict and the need for continued diplomatic efforts to achieve a peaceful resolution. The absence of Putin casts a shadow over the talks, raising concerns about the potential for meaningful progress. However, the fact that talks are ongoing is a sign of hope for a peaceful resolution.