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**Summary:**

Despite ongoing efforts and encouragement from U.S. President Donald Trump, Russian President Vladimir Putin will not attend the upcoming peace talks with Ukraine in Turkiye. Trump expressed little surprise, stating his belief that Putin wouldn’t participate without his own presence. While Putin will be absent, both the U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Trump’s special envoy Steve Witkoff, plan to attend. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has stated he will only negotiate directly with Putin, creating uncertainty about the progress of these talks aimed at securing a ceasefire.

**News Article:**

**From Doha to Dolmabahce: Putin Skips Ukraine Peace Talks, Leaving Future Uncertain**

*May 15, 2025, Doha/Istanbul* – Hopes for a breakthrough in the Ukraine-Russia conflict face a significant hurdle as Russian President Vladimir Putin has confirmed he will not attend the anticipated peace talks in Istanbul, Turkiye. The development, announced just as negotiations were set to begin, has raised questions about the potential for progress in the discussions.

U.S. President Donald Trump, currently on a visit to the Middle East, stated from Doha that he was unsurprised by Putin’s decision. “I didn’t think it was possible for Putin to go if I’m not there,” he told reporters, suggesting a perceived need for his own personal involvement.

While Putin himself will be absent, Russia will be represented by a delegation led by his aide, Vladimir Medinsky. The U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Trump’s special envoy Steve Witkoff are also expected to attend. However, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has maintained that he will only negotiate directly with Putin.

The situation highlights the complexities and deep-seated mistrust that continue to plague efforts towards a peaceful resolution. The absence of Putin raises concerns within diplomatic circles and questions the genuine commitment of the Russian leadership to finding a solution. The success of the talks now hinges on the flexibility of the Ukrainian delegation and the willingness of the Russian representatives to engage in meaningful negotiations despite the absence of their president. The world watches as the peace talks unfold in Istanbul, hoping for a breakthrough despite the initial setback.

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