Zelensky Criticizes Russia’s ‘Dummy’ Delegation at Ukraine Peace Talks in Turkey

On May 15, 2025, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed skepticism about Russia’s commitment to peace, labeling its delegation to Turkey’s peace talks as a “dummy” with an unclear mandate. The talks, the first direct negotiations between Kyiv and Moscow in over three years, highlight the ongoing challenges in resolving the Russia-Ukraine conflict amidst global diplomatic efforts.

Zelensky Questions Russia’s Intentions

Speaking in Ankara after landing for a meeting with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Zelensky criticized the composition of Russia’s delegation to the Istanbul talks. “We need to understand the level of the Russian delegation and what their mandate is, if they are capable of making any decisions themselves,” he said, adding that “from what we see, it looks more like a dummy.” The Russian delegation, led by former culture minister Vladimir Medinsky and including deputy ministers and intelligence officials, lacks high-ranking Kremlin leaders, notably President Vladimir Putin, who declined to attend.

[](https://www.telegraph.co.uk/world-news/2025/05/15/russia-ukraine-peace-talks-turkey-putin-zelensky-trump/)[](https://kyivindependent.com/russia-unveils-peace-talks-delegation-to-meet-ukraine-on-may-15/)

Zelensky emphasized that Ukraine sent a high-level delegation, including foreign ministry officials, military leaders, and intelligence representatives, ready to make decisions for a “just peace.” He noted that further steps would depend on discussions with Erdogan, who is pushing for an immediate ceasefire. The talks, initially set for Thursday afternoon, faced delays, with conflicting reports on timing between Russian and Ukrainian sources.

[](https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/europe/ukraine-russia-war-trump-putin-zelensky-meeting-turkey-live-updates-b2751293.html)[](https://www.bbc.com/news/live/c74nxrr7mwkt)

Geopolitical Stakes: A Test of Diplomacy

The Istanbul talks mark a rare attempt at direct dialogue since March 2022, following Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Putin’s absence, despite his earlier call for direct talks, has drawn criticism, with Zelensky accusing him of undermining the process. European leaders, including France’s Emmanuel Macron and Estonia’s Margus Tsahkna, have labeled Putin’s no-show a sign of disinterest in peace, while U.S. President Donald Trump, who considered attending, downplayed the snub, saying he expected Putin’s absence.

[](https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c04e775gg77o)[](https://news.sky.com/story/ukraine-war-trump-zelenskyy-minerals-deal-putin-north-korea-peace-talks-latest-12541713)[](https://www.bbc.com/news/live/c74nxrr7mwkt)

Ukraine insists on a 30-day ceasefire as a prerequisite, a demand supported by allies but rejected by Russia, which focuses on addressing “root causes” like Ukraine’s NATO aspirations and territorial claims. With Russian forces controlling nearly one-fifth of Ukraine, the talks’ prospects for a breakthrough remain slim, compounded by Russia’s low-level delegation.

[](https://www.cnn.com/2025/05/14/europe/russia-ukraine-meeting-turkey-intl)[](https://x.com/AFP/status/1922779820208914933)

Historical Context: The 2014 Maidan Uprising

A pivotal moment in Ukraine’s modern history is the 2014 Maidan Uprising, also known as the Euromaidan. Sparked by then-President Viktor Yanukovych’s refusal to sign an EU association agreement, mass protests in Kyiv’s Independence Square led to his ousting and set Ukraine on a pro-Western path. The uprising, which claimed over 100 lives, triggered Russia’s annexation of Crimea and the Donbas conflict, laying the groundwork for the current war. This event underscores Ukraine’s resilience, a spirit Zelensky channels in his push for sovereignty and peace.

Embracing Ukrainian Culture: Borscht Recipe

Amidst these diplomatic efforts, we celebrate Ukraine’s rich heritage with Borscht, a traditional beet soup symbolizing warmth and community. This hearty dish is a staple in Ukrainian homes, perfect for sharing during challenging times.

Borscht Recipe

• Ingredients:
  • 4 medium beets, peeled and grated
  • 1 lb beef (optional), cubed
  • 2 potatoes, diced
  • 1 carrot, grated
  • 1 onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/2 head cabbage, shredded
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 6 cups beef or vegetable broth
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 tbsp vinegar or lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Sour cream and fresh dill for serving
• Instructions:
  1. If using beef, heat oil in a large pot and brown the meat. Remove and set aside.
  2. In the same pot, sauté onion, carrot, and garlic until soft. Add tomato paste and cook for 2 minutes.
  3. Add grated beets, broth, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then simmer for 20 minutes.
  4. Add potatoes, cabbage, and beef (if using). Simmer for 15-20 minutes until vegetables are tender.
  5. Stir in vinegar, salt, and pepper. Remove bay leaf.
  6. Serve hot with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of dill.

Borscht’s vibrant color and robust flavor reflect Ukraine’s enduring spirit, much like Zelensky’s resolve in the face of diplomatic challenges.

Looking Ahead: Diplomacy Under Strain

The Turkey talks underscore the deep divide between Ukraine and Russia, with Zelensky’s frustration highlighting the difficulty of negotiating with a delegation lacking authority. As Ukraine awaits clarity on Russia’s intentions, the international community, including the U.S. and Turkey, remains engaged, though hopes for a ceasefire dim. Zelensky’s presence in Ankara sends a strong signal of Ukraine’s commitment to peace, but the path forward remains uncertain.

[](https://news.sky.com/story/ukraine-war-trump-zelenskyy-minerals-deal-putin-north-korea-peace-talks-latest-12541713)[](https://www.cbc.ca/news/world/russia-ukraine-talks-turkey-1.7535503)

Author: Planet-Today.com
Via AFP

Volodymyr Zelensky, Ukraine-Russia talks, Turkey peace talks, Russian delegation, Vladimir Putin, Ukrainian recipe