Putin's No-Show in Turkey: Zelenskyy's Criticism and Trump's Unexpected Comment

Turkey Talks: Putin's Absence Casts Shadow on Peace Efforts; Zelenskyy and Trump React Antalya, Turkey – Hopes for a breakthrough in the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine dimmed significantly today following the unexpected absence of Russian President Vladimir Putin from planned negotiations in Antalya, Turkey. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy arrived as scheduled, delivering a pointed message to his counterpart by his presence alone. However, Putin sent only a low-level delegation, a move that was immediately criticized by Zelenskyy. "This is a very clear message," Zelenskyy stated upon his arrival in Turkey, highlighting Putin's absence. The Russian side responded by issuing a statement that called Zelenskyy's comments "pathetic." The Russian foreign minister, Sergey Lavrov, stated that the Russian delegation was there to observe, not to negotiate. Meanwhile, in a separate development, former US President Donald Trump, speaking to reporters during a Middle East trip, offered his assessment of the situation. "Nothing's going to happen until Putin and I get together," Trump asserted. His comments underscore the complex international dynamics surrounding the conflict and the continued uncertainty about the path to peace. The absence of Putin from the talks has raised concerns that Russia is not serious about peace negotiations. The West is watching closely, and the empty chair at the negotiating table serves as a stark reminder of the challenges ahead. The ongoing conflict has already claimed countless lives and caused widespread destruction. The events of today serve as a sobering reminder of the fragility of peace and the urgent need for meaningful dialogue and engagement from all parties involved.