Russia and Ukraine to hold peace talks in Istanbul, without Vladimir Putin / Russia, Ukraine set for first direct talks since war began with U.S. present / EU fueling conflict between Russia, Ukraine instead of pushing for peace -- EP deputy / US envoy to NATO says focus is on ending Ukraine conflict, not more sanctions on Russia / Ukraine and Russia accuse each other of breaching Moscow-declared ceasefire / Putin gears up for 'grandest' Victory Day amid Ukraine conflict / Ukraine, Russia trade air attacks ahead of World War II anniversary / Russia and Ukraine clash over ceasefire proposals as fighting rages / Rubio says Ukraine, Russia 'still far apart' on peace deal / Ukrainian drones strike Russian air defenses in occupied Crimea (video)