**Ukraine’s President Zelensky Heads to Turkey for Peace Talks with Russia**
As tensions between Ukraine and Russia continue to escalate, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is set to meet with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in Ankara. This move comes ahead of potential peace talks with Russia on May 15. According to videos released by Ukrainian media, Defense Minister Rustem Umerov, Security Service of Ukraine (SBU) Chief Vasyl Malyuk, and General Staff Chief Andrii Hnatov are among those accompanying Zelensky in Turkey.
The meeting between the two leaders is seen as a crucial step towards finding a peaceful resolution to the conflict. In addition to Zelensky, Presidential Office Head Andriy Yermak and Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha have joined him for talks with Erdogan. However, it’s worth noting that Russia has not sent its President Vladimir Putin to meet with Zelensky. Instead, a Russian delegation led by presidential aide Vladimir Medinsky will be meeting with Ukrainian representatives in Istanbul.
**The Key Issues at Stake**
As the situation unfolds, the level of the Russian delegation and their mandate have become key points of contention. Speaking after arriving in Ankara, Zelensky expressed concerns about the authenticity of the Russian delegation. He emphasized that Ukraine needs to understand whether they are capable of making decisions on their own, or if Moscow is simply sending a “sham” delegation.
This raises important questions about the sincerity and commitment of Russia towards finding a peaceful solution. It’s clear that Zelensky is taking a cautious approach, ensuring that any negotiations with Russia do not compromise Ukraine’s interests. The ceasefire is reportedly the only topic that the Ukrainian side is open to discussing with Russia in Turkey.
**What’s Next for Peace Talks?**
As Zelensky meets with Erdogan, he is expected to decide on his next steps regarding peace talks with Russia. This decision will have significant implications for the conflict and its impact on Ukraine and the wider region. Will Russia’s reluctance to send a high-level delegation jeopardize the chances of finding a peaceful resolution? Only time will tell.
Read More @ kyivindependent.com
