Trump not attending Turkey talks on Russia-Ukraine war, says US official

US President Donald Trump will not travel to Turkey to participate in the upcoming Russia-Ukraine talks scheduled for Thursday, according to a US official speaking on Wednesday. 

The statement came shortly after Russian President Vladimir Putin announced the composition of Moscow’s delegation, which notably does not include himself.

Trump had previously hinted he might consider attending the negotiations in Ankara if Putin were also present. However, with the Russian president opting to send representatives instead, Trump has decided not to make the trip.

The anticipated talks in Turkey are part of ongoing international efforts to bring an end to the war in Ukraine, which began with Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022. 

Since then, numerous diplomatic attempts — led by European countries, the UN, and others — have sought to broker ceasefires and establish terms for peace, with limited success.

Trump, who has repeatedly claimed he could end the war "within 24 hours" if elected president again in 2024, has tried to position himself as a potential mediator in the conflict.

His consideration of joining the Turkey talks was seen as an attempt to bolster that image.

The meeting in Turkey is expected to include officials from Russia, Ukraine, and Turkish mediators, continuing Ankara’s efforts to maintain dialogue with both warring sides.