Putin's fear keeps him away from crucial Istanbul talks
Vladimir Putin will not be coming to Istanbul to meet with President Volodymyr Zelensky as part of the peace talks. The British publication "Mirror" reports one of the reasons. They claim that Putin has an obsession that keeps him from leaving not only Russia but even the Kremlin.
On Thursday, May 15, Russian-Ukrainian talks are to take place in Istanbul concerning the end of the war. Volodymyr Zelensky responded to Vladimir Putin's proposal by urging the Russian leader to attend the talks in person. However, the Kremlin is sending a delegation without the Russian president.
The Kremlin statement indicated that the representatives of Russia will be Vladimir Medinsky, Mikhail Galuzin, Igor Kostiukov, and Alexander Fomin. Reuters reports that Volodymyr Zelensky is expected to appear in Istanbul. The U.S. Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, along with special envoys Steve Witkoff and Keith Kellogg, may also participate in the talks.
The talks in Istanbul. Why won't Putin come? The British provide a reason
The British "Mirror" provides the reason why Vladimir Putin has no intention of leaving Moscow. As reported, the 72-year-old leader "has tightened his security and rarely leaves his Kremlin security bubble out of fear of a Ukrainian kill squad, anti-Kremlin plotters or killers from within his inner-circle."
Experts claim that the former KGB agent's reluctance to meet with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Turkey this week has revealed his vulnerability. Western intelligence analysts believe Putin not only fears assassination but that it could realistically occur due to heavy losses on the front. The Russian public is increasingly aware of the consequences of their leader's policies.
Putin's paranoia. Sources provided
It has long been known that Vladimir Putin fears death. Social media frequently features recordings suggesting the use of his body doubles. Security measures used by the Russian leader have also been leaked online. His meals are reportedly tested first by his chef, as Putin does this out of fear of being poisoned.
The "Mirror" reminds readers that many leaders of Russia, the USSR, or even from the times of the Romanov Empire died under very different circumstances, of which Putin is aware. Moreover, several Russian generals have recently died in bomb attacks. Therefore, Putin's paranoia is not only due to his internal dilemmas but also the reality surrounding him.
The absence of a meeting with Zelensky may pose a significant problem for the Russian leader. This absence could signal a lack of any willingness to make peace, leading to a tougher stance on Russia from, among others, the United States. However, it is not yet known how Trump will react to Putin's move, or rather, his lack of movement.
