Trump considers visit to Istanbul for Russia–Ukraine talks
U.S. President Donald Trump has stated that he is considering a visit to Istanbul on May 15, where direct talks may take place between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Russian dictator Vladimir Putin.
He made the statement during a press conference at the White House, Censor.NET reports.
"I think the two leaders will be there (Zelenskyy and Putin in Turkey on Thursday). I thought about flying in. I don’t know where I’ll be on Thursday — I have so many meetings… But I did think about going, it’s a possibility," Trump said on Monday, May 12.
The U.S. President added that he would fly to Istanbul if he "feels it would be useful."
"They couldn’t agree on a meeting because one was talking about a ceasefire, the other was also talking about a ceasefire — [it] just went back and forth. I said: ‘Look, at this point, we need to stop that. Just go meet.’ The meeting was scheduled. Go meet on Thursday," Trump explained.
Background:
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy previously said that Ukraine is ready for meetings and negotiations in any format after a complete ceasefire.
In turn, Russian dictator Vladimir Putin rejected the "Coalition of the Willing" proposal for a ceasefire starting May 12 and instead suggested resuming direct talks between Ukraine and Russia in Istanbul.
U.S. President Donald Trump expressed confidence that Ukraine and Russia could begin peace negotiations — and that the day would be a significant one for both countries.
On May 11, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan held a phone call with French President Emmanuel Macron, during which he emphasized that Turkey is ready to do everything possible to help ensure a ceasefire and lasting peace in Ukraine.
Later, Trump called on Ukraine to accept the proposal to meet with Russia in Turkey.
Shortly afterward, Zelenskyy issued a statement on a ceasefire and talks with Russia.
Trump then expressed hope that Russia would agree to a 30-day ceasefire in its war against Ukraine.
