NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte has criticized Russian President Vladimir Putin for dispatching a low-ranking delegation to the renewed peace talks with Ukraine, calling it a “big mistake” and a signal that Moscow isn’t serious about ending the conflict.
The peace talks, held in Istanbul and initiated by Russia for the first time since 2022, were overshadowed by Putin’s refusal to meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky face-to-face.
Zelensky had proposed a presidential-level dialogue, but Russia instead sent Vladimir Medinsky, a hawkish adviser known for his hardline stance and prior failed negotiations.
Speaking in Tirana during a meeting of the European Political Community, Rutte stated, “The ball is clearly in Putin’s court,” and urged the Russian leader to show genuine commitment to peace.
European leaders at the summit pledged to tighten pressure on Moscow while voicing full support for Ukraine.
Ukraine’s delegation is led by Defence Minister Rustem Umerov, a Crimean native, and includes multiple senior officials, signaling Kyiv’s seriousness and preparedness for meaningful dialogue.
Rutte’s remarks align with broader Western frustration over Russia’s perceived insincerity, especially as global calls grow louder for an end to the prolonged war that has destabilized the region for over three years.
Zelensky, addressing the gathering virtually, echoed similar concerns, accusing Putin of avoiding responsibility and sending “empty heads” instead of showing leadership.
