Putin's hesitation: Security fears keep him from peace talks
Vladimir Putin will not be travelling to Istanbul to meet with President Volodymyr Zelensky for the peace talks. The British "Mirror" reports one reason. They claim that Putin has an obsession that prevents him from leaving not only Russia, but even the Kremlin.
On Thursday, 15 May, Russian-Ukrainian talks are set to take place in Istanbul regarding the end of the conflict. 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's statement indicated that the Russian representatives will be Vladimir Medinsky, Mikhail Galuzin, Igor Kostiukov, and Alexander Fomin. Reuters reports that Volodymyr Zelensky is expected to be 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" explains why Vladimir Putin has no plans to leave 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 suggest the former KGB agent's reluctance to meet Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Turkey this week highlights his vulnerability. Western intelligence analysts feel that Putin not only fears assassination but that it is a genuine risk due to substantial losses on the front line. The Russian population is becoming increasingly aware of the repercussions of their leader's policies.
Putin's paranoia: Sources provided
It is well-known that Vladimir Putin fears for his life. Social media is frequently awash with videos showing his body doubles. Security measures employed by the Russian leader have also surfaced online. His chef reportedly tested his meals first, as he is concerned about the possibility of being poisoned.
The "Mirror" notes that many leaders of Russia, the USSR, and even from the Romanov era, died under varied circumstances, something Putin is acutely aware of. Furthermore, several Russian generals have recently perished in bomb attacks. Thus, Putin's paranoia is fuelled by internal anxieties and the realities surrounding him.
The absence of a meeting with Zelensky could present a significant issue for the Russian leader. This could indicate an unwillingness to pursue peace, potentially resulting in a stricter stance on Russia from countries like the United States. Nonetheless, it remains unclear how Trump will respond to Putin's decision, or lack thereof.
