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Kremlin Delays Naming Delegation for Istanbul Talks Pending Putin's Approval
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![Photo of Dariia Mykhailenko]( "Photo of Dariia Mykhailenko")
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov has declined to reveal who will represent Russia at peace talks scheduled in Istanbul on May 15, according to Russian state media outlet TASS.
He stated that the Russian side is still preparing for the negotiations but emphasized that “the Kremlin will announce who is representing Russia when Putin considers it appropriate.”
Meanwhile, Mykhailo Podolyak, Advisor to the Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine, said in an interview on The Breakfast Show on May 13 that President Volodymyr Zelenskyy would not participate in meetings with Russian representatives unless Russian leader Vladimir Putin is personally present.
“Given the structure of authority in Russia, only the president can make decisions regarding the continuation or end of the war,” Podolyak noted.
“Even those with official titles, such as ministers, likely do not have the necessary mandate.”
He also addressed the legal framework around direct negotiations with Russian officials.
“Adjustments could be made to the decision of the National Security and Defense Council. If negotiations lead to a legally sound agreement, corresponding legal amendments would follow,” Podolyak added.
Earlier, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is scheduled to visit Türkiye on May 15 for peace talks, with expectations that Russian President Vladimir Putin will also participate. The discussions were set to follow a proposed ceasefire beginning on May 12.
At the same time, US President Donald Trump had delivered an ultimatum to Ukraine and Russia, urging them to enter direct peace talks soon or face the possibility of the United States withdrawing from the war entirely, according to his special envoy, Steve Witkoff.
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