In a significant development, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has arrived in Ankara to engage in discussions with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, as the world awaits potential peace talks between Ukraine and Russia set to take place later today in Istanbul. In his initial remarks after landing, Zelenskyy cast doubt on the seriousness of the Russian delegation that landed in Istanbul, describing it as largely a “theatre prop.” He stated, “We’re in contact with the American side, and I believe they’ll also be present in Turkey at a high level.” His skepticism reflects a broader concern regarding the sincerity of Moscow's intentions in the ongoing conflict.

Zelenskyy pointed out, “What we do know for certain is who actually makes decisions on the Russian side. And we will act accordingly.” The Russian delegation is being led by Vladimir Medinsky, a hardline aide to President Vladimir Putin, who previously led the only round of direct peace talks between the two nations in Istanbul back in 2022. Interestingly, Russia has opted not to send its two top diplomats, Yuri Ushakov and Sergei Lavrov, to these talks, both of whom previously participated in high-level negotiations with U.S. officials in Saudi Arabia.

The Kremlin's decision to appoint Medinsky once again suggests that they might be trying to return to a framework established in 2022, a round of negotiations that was largely deemed unproductive due to Russia’s maximalist demands, including controversial stipulations regarding Ukraine’s military capabilities and sovereignty. Boris Bondarev, a former Russian diplomat who resigned in protest over the war, criticized the situation, stating, “This is all just a performance – a simulation of peace talks.” He indicated that Putin’s call for talks in Turkey might be a strategic move aimed at showcasing a commitment to peace while continuing military operations on the ground.

As developments unfold, anticipation grows regarding whether any direct discussions will occur in Istanbul today. Concurrently, Russian military forces have reportedly seized two additional settlements in eastern Ukraine, adding complexity to the volatile situation.

Earlier reports indicated that Zelenskyy's plane landed at Esenboğa airport in Ankara, and he is expected to meet with Erdoğan shortly. Meanwhile, a Russian delegation led by Medinsky arrived in Istanbul earlier in the day, but confusion surrounds the talks with no definitive timeline for when—if at all—negotiations may commence. Ukrainian officials have indicated that Zelenskyy might send his top aides to Istanbul only after wrapping up his discussions with Erdoğan, suggesting that any potential negotiations with the Russian side might occur later in the day, contingent on the outcome of Zelenskyy’s meeting with the Turkish leader.

Compounding the uncertainty, reports from the Russian foreign ministry claim that the talks are to begin this afternoon in Istanbul, although specifics remain murky. Outside the Dolmabahçe Palace in Istanbul, where the negotiations are expected to take place, a throng of media representatives have gathered, yet there has been no sighting of the negotiating teams as of yet. The Dolmabahçe Palace has previously hosted discussions between Moscow and Kyiv, including a notable agreement in 2022 allowing the export of Ukrainian grain, but earlier peace talks held in Antalya and Istanbul also ended without resolution.

With President Putin no longer expected to attend the negotiations in Turkey, the potential outcomes remain uncertain. Putin had initially proposed direct negotiations with Ukraine, which led Zelenskyy to express willingness for a meeting in Turkey. However, following confirmation that Putin would not be attending, Zelenskyy has opted to meet with Erdoğan first before making any decisions about sending a delegation to Istanbul.

In light of this, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov revealed that Putin had convened a preparatory meeting for their delegation, which includes key figures from various sectors of the Russian government, although reports indicate that only lower-level officials have been dispatched to Istanbul. The Russian delegation will be led by Medinsky, with additional representatives including Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Galuzin and Deputy Defence Minister Alexander Fomin.

As the world watches, significant geopolitical stakes remain in play. The Estonian foreign minister described Russia's choice to send a low-level delegation as “a slap in the face,” reflecting widespread skepticism regarding Moscow’s commitment to genuine dialogue. Meanwhile, Ukraine claims to have successfully shot down 62 of 110 drones launched against them by Russia overnight, adding further tension to the already strained situation.

Looking ahead, Zelenskyy has urged the international community to impose rigorous sanctions if Putin fails to attend the talks, indicating that Ukraine’s next steps will depend on the nature of the Russian delegation. Both French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz have warned of new sanctions against Russia if substantial progress is not achieved during this week’s meetings in Turkey.

In conclusion, as both Ukraine and Russia prepare for what could be pivotal discussions, the international community remains on high alert, hoping for a breakthrough that might lead to an end to the ongoing conflict.