Sources Claim Trump Envoys to Head to Istanbul as Uncertainty Remains Over His Participation in Talks

U.S. President Donald Trump’s special envoys, Steve Witkoff and Keith Kellogg, are expected to travel to Istanbul, likely to participate in the upcoming Russia–Ukraine negotiations, Reuters reports, citing three sources.

Whether Trump himself will attend remains unclear.

According to CNN, citing a U.S. administration official, Trump’s involvement in the May 15 talks is still undecided and may depend on whether Russian President Vladimir Putin takes part.

Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov has announced that Putin would announce who will represent Russia at the negotiations in Türkiye “when he deems it necessary."

Zelenskyy's chief of staff, Andriy Yermak, has emphasized that Putin's refusal to join Istanbul talks would be 'last signal' that Russia doesn't want peace. He also stated that Ukraine is "ready to discuss anything," but "only if a ceasefire is achieved."

Meanwhile, citing a source, Verstka reports that Putin is not planning to visit Türkiye. However, the question of whether his presence is necessary could be influenced by U.S. President Donald Trump.

Later, Kellogg told Fox News that Trump would attend the Istanbul Talks if Putin did. He also pointed out that the U.S. aims to achieve a comprehensive ceasefire in Ukraine, after which territorial concessions could be addressed.

Kellogg added that if there is no progress from the Russian side, Washington would consider imposing “the toughest” sanctions.