The next stage of the negotiation process between Ukraine and Russia depends on the outcomes of the meeting between President Volodymyr Zelensky and Turkish leader Recep Tayyip Erdoğan
This issue will become a key moment in clarifying the future tactics and possible steps in diplomatic negotiations, according to Ukrainian sources and media. According to information disclosed by the "Suspilne" television channel, citing a diplomatic source close to the Ukrainian leadership, the decision on further actions in negotiations with the Russian delegation will be made only after Zelensky’s meeting with Erdoğan in the Turkish capital. Currently, officials are quietly remainingsilent regarding the composition of the Ukrainian delegation that will participate in future talks with Russia, but the very possibility of such a meeting is already under threat. Zelensky previously announced his visit to Ankara, where a personal meeting with the Turkish president is scheduled. This will take place on the eve of strategic negotiations that are of significant importance not only for the Ukrainian-Russian conflict but also for international diplomacy as a whole. The history of this diplomatic crisis dates back to May 14, when Vladimir Putin approved the composition of the Russian delegation for participation in negotiations with Ukraine scheduled in Istanbul. However, the Russian president himself was not directly involved in this delegation at that time; it was headed by Vladimir Medinsky — his assistant and one of his closest advisors. It was expected that negotiations would take place on May 15, but high-ranking Russian officials would not participate directly. Ukraine leaves the question of participation in negotiations open, and the official Kyiv has not yet disclosed details about the composition of its delegation. As for possible agreements and further steps, information remains very cautious and measured, as these are strategically significant negotiations that influence the course of the war and the future security of the region. Another important aspect is that not only Ukraine but also the international community are closely monitoring the development of events. It is known, in particular, that former U.S. President Donald Trump expressed his readiness to arrive in Istanbul on Friday for talks regarding the Russian-Ukrainian conflict. This adds another level of political tension and underscores the high interest of international players in assisting and resolving the situation. Thus, the key factor in determining subsequent actions is the outcome of today’s meeting between the Ukrainian leader and the Turkish president. It will serve as a kind of check point, defining the future diplomatic line and the possible signing of new agreements or the implementation of additional restrictions in the negotiation process. We can only wait for official results and assess the role Turkey plays in this diplomatic game and whether it will be possible to reach a consensus in the near future.