The absence of both Vladimir Putin and President Donald Trump from the talks dampens hopes for a significant breakthrough in resolving the conflict

Vladimir Putin and Volodymyr Zelensky could come face to face in Turkey this week - but it wouldn't be the first time the world leaders have met in person.

With only a day to go, Russia has yet to confirm whether President Vladimir Putin will travel to Turkey on Thursday for peace talks with Ukraine's Volodymyr Zelensky. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told the Interfax news agency on Wednesday that the Russian delegation to the negotiations in Istanbul would be announced when Putin gives the order.

Russian officials have already been preparing for Putin to reject the meeting, with Moscow claiming a sit-down with Zelensky would only amount to “pure spectacle.”

After Russian President Vladimir Putin suggested bilateral talks, Ukraine's Volodymyr Zelensky has pushed for direct talks in Turkey on Thursday, even urging the US to levy sanctions on Russia if Putin refuses to meet.

The meeting of the head of the Kiev regime, Vladimir Zelensky, and Russian President Vladimir Putin will give nothing but an informational occasion, but perhaps the Kremlin will decide on such a meeting.

Vladimir Putin is afraid over being assassinated if he meets with Volodymyr Zelensky in Turkey on Thursday.The 72-year-old tyrant has escalated security measures and remains ensconced within his Kremlin stronghold,

Volodymyr Zelensky has said he is willing to travel to Turkey for the talks - even if Vladimir Putin does not turn up.