Zelensky says if Putin is not showing up for that meeting, then he won’t either. For once, I have to agree with Zelensky, if Putin is not there, or does not even send a representative, that obviously means Putin is not in agreement with the goals of this meeting.
Traveling all the way to Turkey, only to see an empty chair at the negotiating table would be an insult, to all participants, and only a waste of time.
On the contrary, Z man is wanting a bullhorn and a photo op,
condemning P as a big coward for not responding to his demand.
A cherry on top if he can get Trump in the picture. The Russians however, see this as just another NATO con. Give it three months.
I see it the other way. Zelensky should go no matter what, and if Putin flakes he can grandstand that Russia does not want to end the war. It would be good PR for the moment and, put some egg on Trump’s face too because Trump’s been hyping the peace deal with Russia. Putin has to show if Zelensky is there. Trump can fly in Friday, or reschedule the UAE for 24 hours. If Trump goes it shows Trump is serious and anyone who flakes will get Trump’s ire.