Trump Skips Ukraine Peace Talks: US President Donald Trump has confirmed he will not attend the upcoming Ukraine peace talks in Istanbul. The talks, set for Thursday, May 15, 2025, are seen as a possible turning point in efforts to end the ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine.
Trump will instead send top advisors Steve Witkoff and Keith Kellogg to represent the US. The decision comes amid heightened global attention and rising hopes for progress. Turkey will host the event, which could mark the first direct dialogue between the two nations in three years.
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Trump Skips Ukraine Peace Talks: Insights
- Trump will not attend the Ukraine peace talks, but will send special envoys.
- The peace talks are happening on Thursday in Istanbul, hosted by Turkey.
- Russian President Vladimir Putin will not attend, but his top aides will.
- Ukraine’s President Zelenskyy insists he’ll attend only if Putin is present.
- Trump’s team still hopes for a breakthrough in the stalled peace process.
- NATO officials are also meeting nearby in Antalya to discuss security.
- US Secretary of State Marco Rubio met with key European and Ukrainian leaders.
Background
The Russia-Ukraine war began in February 2022 when Russia launched a full-scale invasion. Since then, hundreds of thousands have died, and peace efforts have repeatedly failed. Previous talks either stalled or ended without results. The US, under President Trump, had tried to broker a ceasefire but made little headway.
With war fatigue growing globally and pressure rising, a renewed attempt is now underway. Turkey, known for its neutral stance, is once again offering a venue for peace talks.
Main Event
On Thursday, May 15, 2025, Ukraine peace talks will take place in Istanbul. While US President Trump will not be present, he is sending senior advisors Steve Witkoff and Keith Kellogg. The two are tasked with reigniting Trump’s earlier peace push, which had stalled. According to US officials, the mission is to explore possibilities for a ceasefire.
Russia’s President Vladimir Putin, though initially rumored to attend, will not be at the talks. Instead, the Kremlin has announced a delegation led by Vladimir Medinsky. Other top officials in the Russian group include Deputy Defense Minister Alexander Fomin and Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Galuzin. Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has said he would only attend if Putin joins. However, there’s still no final word on whether Zelenskyy will go.
While en route to Qatar, Trump told reporters that Putin had shown interest in his presence at the talks. “We’re going to find out,” Trump said, suggesting his stance could still change.
Meanwhile, NATO diplomats have gathered in Antalya, Turkey. They’re preparing for the NATO summit next month. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio met with Ukraine’s foreign minister and other European leaders.
The overlapping meetings underline the global importance of the Ukraine peace talks. Many hope that Turkey’s efforts may finally open a path to ending the war.
Implications
The outcome of the Ukraine peace talks could impact governments, global markets, and millions of civilians. A breakthrough may ease military tensions and reduce energy costs worldwide. For the US, success could boost Trump’s image as a peacemaker. Ukraine hopes for strong international backing, especially if Zelenskyy decides to attend.
Russia’s decision to send senior officials, not Putin, might be a sign of caution. NATO’s parallel talks show the West’s concern over long-term security. Businesses, especially in energy and defense, are watching closely.
US Special Envoy for Ukraine and Russia, Keith Kellogg (left), and Middle East Special Envoy Steve Witkoff discuss diplomatic efforts.
Photo Credits: AP Photo.
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Conclusion
The Istanbul meeting could become a key moment in the search for peace in Eastern Europe. While expectations are mixed, the presence of top officials from multiple countries adds weight. If the Ukraine peace talks lead to even small progress, it could build momentum for future negotiations.
Experts believe Turkey’s neutral role and global attention might create a rare window for change.
