Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has extended an invitation to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin in Turkey this Thursday. This offer follows Putin’s recent call for peace talks, which Zelenskyy has welcomed, provided there is an unconditional ceasefire starting on Monday.
Zelenskyy expressed his readiness for dialogue in a post on social media, emphasizing the need for a full and lasting ceasefire to create a conducive environment for diplomacy. He stated, “There is no point in prolonging the killings. And I will be waiting for Putin in Türkiye on Thursday. Personally. I hope that this time the Russians will not look for excuses.”
Putin’s proposal for the meeting comes in the wake of pressure from European leaders, including UK Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer. They have warned of new sanctions against Russia if it does not agree to a 30-day ceasefire. Starmer has been vocal about the need for Putin to take genuine steps toward peace.
In his comments, Zelenskyy reiterated the importance of a ceasefire, stating that it would lay the groundwork for meaningful negotiations. He is eager to see if Russia will engage in good faith this time.
Former U.S. President Donald Trump also weighed in, urging Ukraine to accept the meeting invitation without delay. He suggested that the talks could clarify whether a deal is possible and help the U.S. and European leaders understand the situation better.
Trump expressed skepticism about Ukraine’s willingness to reach an agreement with Putin, hinting at doubts about the Russian leader’s intentions. He called the proposed talks a "potentially great day for Russia and Ukraine" and offered his assistance in facilitating the discussions.
As the situation unfolds, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has voiced his support for the proposed talks and is prepared to host the meeting in Istanbul. However, analysts caution that even if the talks proceed, they may not lead to an immediate ceasefire, and the situation could remain tense.
The backdrop of this diplomatic effort includes ongoing discussions among European leaders, who recently met in Kyiv to strategize a united front against Russia. They have expressed a commitment to holding Putin accountable for his actions.
The world is watching closely as both leaders prepare for this potential dialogue, hoping it will pave the way for peace in a region that has seen too much conflict.