Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has confirmed he will send his defence minister to participate in peace talks with Russia in Istanbul, even as he voiced strong doubts about Moscow’s sincerity in seeking an end to the war.
The talks, backed by Turkey and the United States, are scheduled to take place soon, but so far lack a confirmed time or full attendance from all sides.
Speaking during a press conference in Ankara after meeting Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Zelensky said the decision to send a high-level delegate was a gesture of respect for both Erdogan and US President Donald Trump. He emphasized that Ukraine is committed to any credible path to peace, despite the challenges involved in negotiating with Russian officials.
The talks, initially announced with some optimism, took a hit when Russian President Vladimir Putin declined to attend in person. Zelensky, who had earlier invited Putin to meet face-to-face in Istanbul, criticised the Kremlin for sending what he described as an uncommitted delegation. Moscow fired back through its foreign ministry, launching personal insults at the Ukrainian leader.
Zelensky noted that real peace would require Russia to take the negotiations seriously. He stated that Russia has not shown signs of political will to resolve the war, calling for greater pressure from both Ukraine’s Western allies and countries in the developing world. According to Zelensky, without a real discussion about a ceasefire, peace remains out of reach.
He also urged partners to consider stronger sanctions on Russia, arguing they remain a key tool in forcing Moscow back to the table with genuine intent. The Ukrainian president reiterated that any future agreements must respect the United Nations Charter and Ukraine’s sovereignty. He explained that Ukraine’s parliament and people had given him the mandate to explore paths to end the conflict, but only under fair and just conditions.
When asked about what could happen if Russia rejects another ceasefire proposal, Zelensky replied that Ukraine is still open to direct negotiations, noting that talks have already taken place in countries like France, the UK, Saudi Arabia, and now Turkey. He admitted it is difficult to engage with Russian representatives but maintained that Ukraine remains prepared to talk directly.
The Istanbul meeting’s timing remains uncertain, and Turkish officials have yet to confirm when delegates from all sides will convene. While Ukraine has made its intentions clear by sending its defence minister, Zelensky said the real test would be whether Russia shows up with a willingness to talk peace—or whether the meeting becomes yet another missed opportunity.
As of now, Ukraine, the US, and Turkey are waiting to see what kind of presence Russia brings to the table. The outcome could determine whether diplomatic momentum can be revived or if the conflict will drag on further without resolution.