Kremlin leans on Zelenskyy ‘illegitimacy’ claim to stall Istanbul talks — ISW

On May 12, Russian Federation Council deputy speaker Konstantin Kosachev dismissed Zelenskyy's invitation as “pure theatrics” and “comedy.” He claimed that “this is not how high-level meetings, especially in this complex situation, are organized.” Kosachev further accused Zelenskyy of trying to “shift blame onto Russia” and portray Moscow as unwilling to negotiate.

Special envoy Rodion Miroshnik and State Duma deputy Aleksey Chepa also questioned Zelenskyy’s intentions. Chepa implied that Moscow could not trust Ukraine, accusing Kyiv of violating previous agreements and Russia’s unilateral “ceasefires.” Meanwhile, Kremlin proxy Vladimir Rogov claimed that Zelenskyy's Istanbul offer was actually an attempt to derail peace talks.

As of the ISW report’s publication, the Kremlin had not officially responded to Zelenskyy’s proposal. However, statements by lower-level officials suggest Putin is unlikely to travel to Istanbul or engage in direct talks.

ISW analysts stressed that Putin is devoting significant rhetorical effort to preparing the Russian public for a protracted war, not a short-term peace deal. The Kremlin continues to push the false narrative that Ukraine's government is “illegitimate,” which has long served as a pretext for avoiding direct negotiations and justifying the goal of replacing Kyiv’s government with a Russian-controlled puppet regime.

To pursue direct talks with Zelenskyy, the Kremlin will need to abandon or revise that rhetoric — something it has shown no sign of doing. Putin’s own references to “the Kyiv authorities,” rather than naming Zelenskyy or the Ukrainian government, underscore the persistence of that narrative.

ISW warned that even if Putin temporarily sets aside claims of Zelenskyy's illegitimacy, he could later revive them to discredit or break any future peace agreement. Therefore, any lasting settlement must include Russia’s clear recognition of Ukraine’s President, government, and Constitution.