**Ukraine’s Zelensky Accepts Invitation for Direct Talks with Putin**
In a significant development, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has accepted an invitation from Russian President Vladimir Putin to engage in direct talks in Istanbul later this week. The proposal was made after Russia’s Victory Day “truce” on May 9, where Putin rejected calls for an unconditional ceasefire.
According to sources close to the Ukrainian President’s Office, Zelensky is ready to meet Putin on May 15 and has been discussing the details of the proposed meeting with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. In a phone call on May 12, Zelensky expressed his gratitude for Erdogan’s support and readiness to promote diplomacy.
The Ukrainian President emphasized that he shares the same view as Turkey on the need for a ceasefire and is willing to engage in direct talks with Putin. “We are ready for direct negotiations with Putin,” Zelensky said in a statement, adding that it was crucial for Europe to work together for long-term security guarantees.
However, despite accepting the invitation, there are still several unanswered questions regarding the meeting’s agenda and potential outcomes. While Turkey has offered its support and promised to host the Russian and Ukrainian delegations, Putin has yet to formally confirm his attendance on May 15.
The proposed meeting comes as Russia faces mounting pressure from Western allies to agree to a ceasefire and begin top-level direct negotiations. The leaders of the U.K., Germany, France, and Poland had threatened to implement additional sanctions if Russia did not agree to a ceasefire by May 12. US President Donald Trump also weighed in on the matter, saying he believed both leaders would attend the talks.
As the situation continues to unfold, experts have noted that Ukraine’s willingness to engage in direct talks with Putin may have caught him off guard. The meeting could potentially lead to significant breakthroughs or, conversely, result in further complications and stalemates.
**What’s Next?**
With multiple scenarios possible, it remains unclear what will transpire on May 15. One thing is certain, however – the world is watching closely as Ukraine and Russia navigate this critical juncture. The meeting’s success or failure will undoubtedly have far-reaching consequences for both nations and the global community at large.
Stay tuned for further updates as this story continues to develop.
Read More @ kyivindependent.com
