Zelenskyy Outlines Expectations for Future Negotiations with Russia: Decisive Steps Depend on Who Arrives in Turkey
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy made an important statement regarding upcoming diplomatic negotiations with Russia in his recent address on May 14. The head of state noted that he is currently awaiting official information from Moscow about who will represent their side at the planned talks in Turkey. Only after receiving this information will Ukrainian authorities be able to determine their next steps in the conflict resolution process. In his speech, Zelenskyy emphasized that internal consultations and meetings with his team are ongoing, particularly concerning the format of the event in Turkey. "I am waiting to see who will come from Russia, and then I will decide what steps Ukraine needs to take. Only after clarity about their representation will we be able to respond appropriately and plan our actions," the president said. The leader also expressed a certain skepticism regarding signals from the Russian side. According to him, rumors and information circulated in the media at this stage cannot be considered convincing or sufficient for making strategic decisions. At the same time, Zelenskyy mentioned that the situation could change in a short period, as another high-ranking official—U.S. President Donald Trump—is expected to visit Turkey on Wednesday, considering the possibility of attending the negotiations. “We understand that one week can radically change many things—both politically and diplomatically. This is a very important period, and everything is being decided now,” Zelenskyy stressed. Regarding military actions, the president noted that Russian aggressors carried out renewed shelling—using attack drones and ballistic missiles—against Ukrainian territories. Zelenskyy emphasized that despite global anticipation of a positive response from Vladimir Putin to the proposal for direct negotiations, Russia continues to bomb Ukraine. “When the whole world expects a simple 'yes' from Putin to direct talks, instead, he continues to strike our country, adding new dramas and tensions to the conflict,” Zelenskyy said. Preconditions and Important Nuances According to official sources, a scheduled meeting between Ukrainian President and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan is set to take place on Thursday, May 15, in Ankara. However, if Vladimir Putin, the leader of the Kremlin, agrees to come to Istanbul, it is highly likely that he and Erdoğan will then travel to Moscow. This would be a sign of serious intentions for dialogue and possible concessions from both sides. Andriy Yermak, head of the President’s Office, noted that Putin's refusal to come to Turkey and rejection of any other negotiation formats could be seen as a final signal of Moscow’s unwillingness to end the war. According to him, "if Vladimir Putin refuses to appear personally in Turkey, it will be the final nail in the coffin for diplomatic settlement agreements." On the other hand, the Kremlin confirmed that the Russian side continues active preparations for the planned negotiations in Istanbul on May 15, and currently no other comments or clarifications regarding the situation have been provided. As if emphasizing their readiness, Russian officials highlight that the negotiation process is ongoing, with technical and diplomatic work in progress to facilitate it. Overall, the situation remains tense and filled with uncertainty: the international community is keenly observing the developments in conflict resolution and asking whether Russia will agree to negotiations, and who will confirm the seriousness of their intentions to end the war by their visit. These days could determine the future course of events in Ukraine’s diplomatic and military spheres.