According to a senior Ukrainian source, one of the primary sticking points was a demand from the Russian delegation that Ukraine surrender territory currently under its control — a condition Kyiv considers unacceptable.

Notable Absences: Putin, Zelensky, and Trump Skip the Summit
Expectations for the summit had been high, but it was soon clear that neither President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine nor President Vladimir Putin of Russia would attend. Their absence followed several days of uncertainty and confusion surrounding the summit’s format.

Zelensky did not mince words about Putin’s decision to skip the talks, criticizing Moscow for failing to send “any real decision-makers” to the negotiating table. He also reiterated Ukraine’s position that any peace process must begin with the withdrawal of Russian troops from occupied areas.

Adding to the high-profile absences was U.S. President Donald Trump, who had previously hinted that he might alter his Middle East itinerary to personally attend the talks. Ultimately, he chose not to participate, although sources close to the Trump team say he remains eager to hold a separate meeting with Vladimir Putin.

Pressure Mounts from Europe
In response to Putin’s absence and the lack of meaningful progress, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz announced plans to impose a new round of sanctions against Moscow. European leaders have become increasingly vocal in their push for a 30-day ceasefire, urging the Kremlin to demonstrate goodwill by halting hostilities — even temporarily.

So far, Russia has shown little willingness to compromise, while Ukraine remains firm in its refusal to negotiate away sovereign territory. With trust at a historic low and political stakes high, the path to peace remains steep and uncertain.

Still, the fact that both sides sat at the same table for the first time in years marks a symbolic step forward — even if the substance is still lagging far behind.