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Zelenskyy Calls Russian Delegation a "Mere Facade" Ahead of Türkiye Talks

Upon his arrival in Türkiye on May 15, President Zelenskyy stated at the airport that the level of the Russian delegation resembled a theatrical performance.
"The level of the Russian delegation is similar to that of a mere facade. Further steps will be decided after the meeting with Erdoğan. We need to understand the mandate of the Russian representatives," he stated.
He also mentioned that all heads of Ukraine's intelligence agencies are present at the meeting in Ankara.
On May 15, Ukrainian and Russian delegations are set to meet in Istanbul, marking the first direct talks since early ceasefire efforts collapsed in spring 2022.
President Zelenskyy has confirmed his participation and reiterated his call for a ceasefire ahead of the meeting. However, reports indicate that Russian leader Vladimir Putin will not be part of the Russian delegation for the upcoming negotiations.
Russia’s delegation for the upcoming negotiations with Ukraine in Istanbul on May 15 will be led by Vladimir Medinsky, Assistant to the leader of the Russian Federation, according to an official order signed by Russian leader Vladimir Putin on May 14, TASS reported.
