Istanbul Talks: A Calculated Pressure Tactic on Putin?

Istanbul Talks: A Pressure Tactic on Putin? Amidst ongoing tensions in the Russo-Ukrainian war, the upcoming negotiations in Istanbul are generating significant interest. Vitaliy Portnikov, a prominent political analyst, suggests that Turkey's Foreign Minister, Hakan Fidan, is using the talks as a strategic tool to pressure Russian President Vladimir Putin. Portnikov points to Fidan's post-Moscow negotiation comments as evidence, highlighting Russia's perceived unconstructive approach to peace in Ukraine. "Fidan's expectations for Istanbul seem less about genuine peace talks and more about applying pressure," Portnikov states. The analyst's comments highlight the complexities of international diplomacy and the ongoing efforts to find a resolution to the conflict. The Istanbul talks, therefore, are not merely a diplomatic event but a pivotal moment in the ongoing geopolitical game.