Ukraine, Russia Prepare Peace Talks in Turkey Amid US Diplomatic Rivalry

Turkey is intensifying its efforts to broker a lasting and just peace between Russia and Ukraine, with President Erdoğan emphasizing the importance of a comprehensive ceasefire and urging NATO to remain neutral in the conflict. A high-stakes summit is set to take place in Istanbul, where Ukraine's President Zelensky has confirmed his attendance and called for direct talks with Russian President Putin, whose participation remains uncertain. U.S. involvement is marked by an internal rivalry between Secretary of State Rubio, who advocates a tough stance on Russia, and special envoy Witkoff, who favors backchannel negotiations with Moscow; both will attend the summit. Former President Donald Trump has expressed interest in attending the talks, viewing the meeting as a potential diplomatic opportunity, which some U.S. officials believe could increase pressure on Putin. Despite the return to negotiations, deep divisions persist, with Russia rejecting Ukraine’s demands for an unconditional ceasefire and insisting on maximalist terms that challenge Ukraine’s sovereignty. The talks in Turkey represent a critical and complex diplomatic effort amid ongoing war and significant casualties.