Trump mulls joining crucial Russian-Ukrainian talks in Istanbul
US President Donald Trump is considering a trip to Istanbul, where Russian-Ukrainian talks are set to take place. "All of us in Ukraine would appreciate it if President Trump could be there with us at this meeting in Türkiye. This is the right idea. We can change a lot," wrote Volodymyr Zelensky on social media.
What you need to know
- Russian-Ukrainian talks are scheduled for May 15 in Istanbul.
- The presence of US President Donald Trump is a possibility.
- Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated Ukrainians "would appreciate" if Trump attended the meeting in Istanbul.
Zelensky commented on Platform X that Trump's indication of a potential visit to Istanbul is a "very important words."
He emphasized his support for the White House's position, which calls for a full and unconditional ceasefire during peace negotiations. Zelensky reassured that Ukraine is prepared to adhere to such an agreement.
Zelensky also mentioned that "he supports President Trump with the idea of direct talks with Putin." He noted that he himself is ready to meet the Russian leader. "I have openly expressed my readiness to meet. I will be in Türkiye. I hope that the Russians will not evade the meeting," wrote Zelensky.
"And of course, all of us in Ukraine would appreciate it if President Trump could be there with us at this meeting in Türkiye. This is the right idea. We can change a lot," declared the Ukrainian president.
He added that such a meeting could be hosted by Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.
Talks in Istanbul. Trump considers attending
On May 15 in Turkey, talks between Russia and Ukraine will occur at the expert-technical level. "I don't know where I'm going to be on Thursday, I've got so many meetings. But I was thinking about actually flying over there," said Donald Trump on Monday.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expects that Russia will agree to a complete and permanent ceasefire. He declared that on Thursday, he would be waiting for Vladimir Putin in Turkey.
Leaders of Ukraine, Poland, France, Germany and the United Kingdom have called on Russia to accept a 30-day ceasefire, warning of sanctions.
