Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has announced his readiness to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin in Istanbul on May 15 for direct peace negotiations. This move comes in response to Putin’s unexpected proposal for unconditional talks in Turkey on the same day, signaling a possible shift in the geopolitical landscape if both leaders follow through.
Zelenskyy made the statement on his Telegram channel on May 11, saying he would personally wait for the Russian leader in Turkey, but stressed that a “complete and prolonged” ceasefire must precede the meeting. “There is no point in prolonging the killings,” Zelenskyy declared. “And I will wait for Putin on Thursday in Turkey.” His words mark the clearest indication yet that Ukraine’s leadership is willing to enter negotiations without preconditions — provided the bloodshed stops immediately, According to Reuters.
This development comes just days after a joint initiative from the United States, EU, and Ukraine proposing a 30-day ceasefire starting May 12, aimed at laying the groundwork for potential peace talks. Russia has not officially responded to that offer, though Putin’s new suggestion to meet in Istanbul suggests some level of consideration.
The Kremlin has not yet confirmed whether Putin will indeed attend the Istanbul talks. However, Russian state media reported that Moscow is open to direct dialogue and is now waiting for concrete steps from Kyiv and its Western allies. Russia’s foreign ministry said the country was committed to a peaceful resolution but reiterated its earlier stance that negotiations must reflect “new realities” on the ground — a reference to Russia’s territorial claims.
In a curious twist, the Turkish presidential administration stated it had no official information about Zelenskyy’s proposed visit or any confirmed arrangements for hosting peace negotiations on May 15. This uncertainty has raised questions about whether Ankara is being used as a diplomatic backdrop or whether back-channel discussions are taking place without public disclosure.
The possibility of peace talks has attracted global attention, especially after former US President Donald Trump recently called on Ukraine to “immediately” start negotiations with Russia. Trump, who is campaigning for a return to the White House, criticized the Biden administration’s handling of the war and urged Kyiv to make concessions for peace.
Despite this swirl of activity, skepticism remains. Ukrainian defense officials remain cautious, warning that Russia may be using peace overtures as a strategic ploy while continuing its military operations. Likewise, analysts in the West question whether any serious agreement can be reached, given the vast divide between the two nations’ positions and ongoing hostilities.
Nevertheless, Zelenskyy’s public commitment to meet with Putin signals a rare opening in a war that has raged for more than two years. If both sides commit to the Istanbul meeting and agree to a ceasefire, it could mark the beginning of a new chapter — one that favors diplomacy over destruction.
