Putin Is Testing How Far He Can Push Trump by Not Turning up for Istanbul Talks

The Russian-Ukrainian talks in Istanbul ended in two hours, but the way it happened meant that Moscow gained more. Putin's tactics worked, the direct talks with Ukraine took place at a low level on his own terms, he didn't have to make any commitments, and Trump even offered to meet in person.

The meeting in Istanbul was a tactical victory for Putin — New York Times: EADaily

EADaily, May 16th, 2025. The Russian-Ukrainian meeting in Istanbul was a tactical victory for Russian President Vladimir Putin. The New York Times writes about this.

Putin is testing how far he can push Trump by not turning up for Istanbul talks

Over three years after Russia invaded Ukraine, the countries are finally meeting for direct peace talks in Istanbul.