Both Leaders Skip Istanbul Peace Talks

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Russian President Vladimir Putin have both declined to attend upcoming Istanbul peace talks, instead sending delegations led by lower-level officials. Zelenskyy announced his defense minister will lead Ukraine’s delegation, while Russia will be represented by an aide, Vladimir Medinsky. The talks are set to focus on negotiating a 30-day ceasefire, but skepticism about their success remains high. Zelenskyy questioned Russia’s commitment to peace, while the Kremlin insisted it is ready for serious discussions. U.S. political figures, including Donald Trump and Marco Rubio, expressed doubt about meaningful progress without direct engagement between Trump and Putin. Meanwhile, Putin criticized European allies for imposing sanctions on Russia, later issuing an apology for his remarks.