Ukraine and Russia: Direct Meeting in Istanbul Being Prepared with the Participation of the US and Turkey — Zelensky
In the latest diplomatic efforts aimed at overcoming a years-long crisis and ending the military conflict between Ukraine and Russia, the United States and Turkey may play a key role. This was stated by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky during a press conference held in Ankara, according to the information agency "European Pravda." According to the Ukrainian leader, the negotiation process is already gaining momentum, and the fate of upcoming meetings depends on strategic partnership and the support of the West and Turkey, who are ready to act as mediators. During a conversation with journalists, Zelensky confirmed that the United States and the Republic of Turkey are considered neutral mediators in the upcoming negotiations being prepared in Turkish Istanbul. Although the exact date of the future talks has not yet been determined, the Ukrainian president emphasized that work in this direction is already underway. "I see that part of our delegation is already in Istanbul, and they are there now. It is expected that the Ukrainian delegation will arrive there on Thursday, and in case of necessity, as early as tomorrow, to be ready for any developments," Zelensky stated. Talking about the state of consultations, he stressed the importance of respecting all participants in the process and avoiding artificial barriers, as the timing of negotiations remains open. "There are proposals for direct meetings as early as today, May 15, in Turkey, but the leadership has not yet finalized the dates. This question is open, and any changes could happen in the near future," the president added. It is important to note that Zelensky himself traveled to Ankara as part of a delegation, hoping for a productive meeting. At the moment, he is waiting for Russian President Vladimir Putin to arrive; however, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov confirmed that one should not expect a meeting with the Ukrainian leader in Istanbul. "Putin does not plan to participate in negotiations in Turkey," Peskov stated, adding that Russia has sent a low-level delegation headed by Kremlin aide Vladimir Medinsky. Ukraine's interest in the meeting is also evident, which is why Zelensky has decided to lead the Ukrainian delegation in Istanbul, with Defense Minister Rustem Umerov serving as the chief negotiator. This demonstrates Kyiv’s serious intention to reach a final resolution and stop the bloodshed through diplomatic means, while involving leading international partners to ensure neutrality and fairness in the negotiation process. The course of events in the very near future will show how effectively the new format can facilitate a constructive dialogue between the parties and whether the US and Turkey can ensure balance and fairness in the negotiation process. As the world stays attentive, the results of these important diplomatic efforts are awaited — they could become the first step toward de-escalating the conflict and finding a long-term peace in the region.