How Putin Missed His Shot at Peace
Briefly

The article discusses the diplomatic stumbles of Russia as exemplified by Vladimir Putin’s absence from negotiations in Istanbul, which highlighted Russia's refusal to engage in peace efforts concerning Ukraine. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky reached out to Putin, expressing readiness for dialogue, yet Putin's absence handed Zelensky a tactical advantage. Meanwhile, the article notes the challenges Zelensky faced regarding U.S. support amidst potential disinformation from Russia that framed Ukraine as unwilling to end the conflict, raising Ukrainian officials' concerns about Trump's friendliness toward Russia.
The empty seat reserved for Vladimir Putin at the Istanbul negotiations symbolized Russia's refusal to engage in peace talks and ceasefires during the ongoing war in Ukraine.
Zelensky’s calls for Putin to attend the negotiations highlight Ukraine’s willingness for dialogue, contrasting with Putin's evident disdain for the peace process.
Trump's administration's overtures to Russia and the misinformation campaign led by Putin's allies raised concerns for Ukraine’s leadership about U.S. support.
Zelensky expressed fears over disinformation influencing U.S. decision-makers, which painted Ukraine as reluctant to end the war, despite their real desire for peace.
Read at time.com
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