Seems like neither side wants peace. I think this is a major blunder on Russia’s part. Now is the time to ink a deal while Trump is still in office. Trump may not even finish his term. He is almost 80 for one. When Trump is gone, the window for peace will very likely be closed, and perhaps sooner than that if both sides continue the games.
Russia seems to be reveling in what it sees as a victory over Ukraine and is enjoying flaunting the peace talks. It may very well come back and bite them.
Russia proposed the direct talks with Ukraine on Saturday.
Their negotiating team is in Istanbul right now.
If the Ukrainians fail to meet with them the blunder is on them and their Western sponsors.