NATO slams Putin for dispatching a low-level delegation to Ukraine peace negotiations, with Secretary-General Mark Rutte calling it a direct insult to diplomatic efforts and a clear indication that Moscow is not genuinely pursuing peace.
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.
READ ALSO, ODODO MEDIA AIDE HOSTS RISING STAR AJEMO
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.
VIDEO: KOGI GOVERNMENT HOUSE LAUNCHES MONTHLY NEWSLETTER
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.
