After five days of confusion over Russian President Vladimir Putin’s proposal for direct talks with Ukraine, the day they were supposed to begin initially brought only more of the same: a seven-hour stakeout on the banks of the Bosphorus,

The talks in Istanbul complicated a European push for the United States to pressure Russia into a ceasefire in Ukraine.

June 15, 2024: Representatives of 92 nations meet in Nidwalden, Switzerland, to discuss Ukraine’s peace plan. Despite the growing number of delegates, a consensus remains elusive. The summit’s final statement is backed by most – although not all – participants.

Kremlin to reveal ‘tonight’ if Putin will dodge crucial Turkey peace talks - Zelensky says he will fly to Istanbul at a moment's notice if Putin does show up

Russian presidential aide Yury Ushakov said the Russian and Ukrainian delegations will arrive in Istanbul on Thursday to discuss political and technical issues. Ushakov revealed in an interview broadcast on the Russian television channel Rossiya 1 on Wednesday that the meeting is likely to take place in the morning.

The EU claims to be involved in peace efforts despite not sitting at the negotiating table and threatens further sanctions if the Kremlin does not accede to demands for a ceasefire