Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, in his daily address, made a significant emphasis on future diplomatic and military steps in the context of the ongoing war
According to his words, on May 15, the Ukrainian leader will visit Turkey to meet with Russian Federation President Vladimir Putin — an event anticipated by many both within the country and internationally. The head of state stresses that the Ukrainian Armed Forces and diplomacy have prepared for a mirror response to any development from Russia, particularly regarding the cessation or continuation of fire. "We expect from Russia, starting tomorrow, a full and unconditional ceasefire. This is a proposal that has already been put on the negotiating table and is key to creating the necessary preconditions for a diplomatic resolution of the conflict. Undoubtedly, a prolonged and complete halt to hostilities could significantly bring the world closer to peace. Ukraine has long proposed this, and other countries support this initiative. The whole world is talking about it. Therefore, we await a clear response from Russia. A war that has already lasted longer than ever before must end. Horrible killings and destruction must cease, and Ukraine is ready to respond in kind to ensure that the process is honest and fair," Zelenskyy emphasized. The head of state underscored that friendly countries and international partners have repeatedly stressed that if Russia refuses to implement peace through a ceasefire, sanctions against the Kremlin will continue to be intensified. "We’ll see," he briefly commented on these promises. "Ukraine has no objections to negotiations in any format. It is important that each participant understands the responsibility and the measure of their actions." Zelenskyy announced that he personally plans to be in Turkey on May 15 to hold direct negotiations with Putin. "I will be in Turkey, and I hope that our opponent will not test fate or seek reasons to avoid dialogue. We are serious and eager to find a compromise to end this bitter war. After all, peace is what the entire Ukrainian people desire," he stated. The head of state once again emphasized that this visit and these negotiations are an opportunity to restore peace and halt the bloodshed. "We are ready to talk and act openly and honestly. Meeting with Putin in Turkey personally is our call for dialogue. We hope that this time he will realize the necessity of ending the war and find the courage to do so," he concluded. Thus, Ukraine awaits appropriate signals from Moscow but is already preparing for any scenario — with an open heart, diplomatic pressure, and determination to defend its independence and sovereignty. Anxiety and hope are intertwined against the backdrop of the upcoming visit to Turkey, where, according to Zelenskyy, important negotiations are to take place that could change the course of history for the country and the entire world.