President Putin will not attend Ukraine-Russia’s first direct talks since 2022, raising questions about peace prospects. Key updates and reactions inside.

Putin to Remain Absent From Ukraine-Russia’s First Direct Talk Since 2022 | Latest Updates

May 15, 2025 – For the first time since 2022, Ukraine and Russia are set to engage in direct peace talks, but Russian President Vladimir Putin will not be attending. The Kremlin confirmed his absence, delegating the role to senior officials instead, stirring speculation on Moscow’s real intentions.

The much-anticipated talks are taking place under UN supervision in Geneva, Switzerland, marking a significant, though cautious, step toward de-escalation in the long-running conflict.

🧭 Why Is Putin Skipping the Talks?

According to a Kremlin spokesperson, President Putin ’s absence is “strategic,” meaning to allow diplomatic room for negotiators while maintaining political distance from possible failure. This move has drawn mixed reactions from international analysts and Ukraine’s leadership.

“His absence could mean either openness to negotiation or deliberate distancing,” said Olga Litvinenko, a Moscow-based geopolitical analyst.

🌍 What Are the Key Agendas of the Ukraine-Russia Talks?

The core topics being discussed include:

• Immediate ceasefire terms
• Restoration of territorial boundaries
• Return of prisoners of war
• Humanitarian corridor reestablishment
• Post-conflict reconstruction aid

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has insisted that no deal would be accepted without the full return of Donetsk, Luhansk, and Crimea.

🔍 Putin’s Absence: Symbolic or Strategic?

📌 Trending Keyword: “President Putin skips Ukraine peace talks”

President Putin ’s absence has set the tone for a high-stakes meeting that might be symbolically weaker yet diplomatically significant. Western officials suggest it could be a test of international pressure.

NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg commented:

“Russia’s leadership needs to take accountability, not hide behind envoys.”

Meanwhile, China and India, both observers in the peace initiative, have urged restraint from both sides, emphasizing the need for a mutual de-escalation path.

📊 Data Snapshot: Conflict Status & Casualties

Source: UNHCR and Amnesty International

💬 Reactions From Global Leaders

• Joe Biden (U.S. President): “We support diplomatic efforts but expect meaningful outcomes.”
• Ursula von der Leyen (EU President): “Europe backs Ukraine’s sovereignty in every negotiation room.”
• Xi Jinping (China President): “Peace must be the goal, not politics.”

🏛️ Geneva’s Role as a Neutral Ground

Geneva, known for its neutral status in global diplomacy, has been chosen for the first round of talks. The UN Peace Envoy Team, led by Martin Griffiths, is moderating sessions expected to run till May 20.

 (QuickNews Insight):

✅ Read also: Russia-Ukraine War Timeline: Key Moments Since 2022

❓FAQs: What People Are Asking

🔹 1. Why is President Putin not attending the Ukraine-Russia talks?

Putin has chosen not to attend to maintain strategic ambiguity, letting diplomats lead negotiations.

🔹 2. What is being discussed in these peace talks?

Ceasefire, territorial restoration, prisoner exchange, and humanitarian aid are top priorities.

🔹 3. Will Ukraine agree to a deal without Crimea?

President Zelenskyy has firmly stated that Crimea must be returned as part of any deal.

🔹 4. Who is representing Russia in the talks?

Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov is leading the Russian delegation in Geneva.

🔹 5. Are these talks likely to succeed?

Experts remain cautious, calling this a “soft entry point” with limited expectations from the first round.

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Article by QuickNews.Press Editorial Team
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