**Ukrainian Officials Meet with Western Allies in Istanbul Ahead of Russia Talks**
A high-level meeting took place in Istanbul on May 16, where Ukrainian officials, including Chief of Staff Andriy Yermak and Defense Minister Rustem Umerov, held talks with national security advisors from France, Germany, the United Kingdom, and the United States. This comes as Ukraine prepares to meet with Russian representatives for a face-to-face meeting in Turkey.
According to Suspilne, Ukrainian officials met with top officials from Western countries, including Keith Kellogg, Special Envoy of former US President Donald Trump. These talks mark an important step towards building international support and cooperation ahead of the anticipated negotiations between Ukraine and Russia.
**First Direct Talks Since 2022 Peace Negotiations**
The meeting in Istanbul is significant as it marks the first direct negotiations between Russia and Ukraine since the unsuccessful peace talks in Istanbul in 2022. After Moscow proposed to hold peace talks this week, President Volodymyr Zelensky agreed, inviting Russian President Vladimir Putin for a face-to-face meeting. However, Putin declined, appointing his aide, Vladimir Medinsky, to lead the talks.
**Ukrainian Delegation Prepares for Talks**
A Ukrainian delegation led by Defense Minister Rustem Umerov will travel to Istanbul on May 16 to discuss a potential ceasefire with Russian officials. This smaller delegation was announced after President Zelensky held talks with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan. Kyiv and its partners have been urging Moscow to adopt an unconditional 30-day ceasefire as the first step towards a broader peace deal.
**Importance of Western Support**
The meeting in Istanbul highlights the importance of international support for Ukraine’s efforts to find a peaceful resolution to the conflict with Russia. The involvement of top officials from France, Germany, and the UK demonstrates their commitment to supporting Ukraine’s territorial integrity and sovereignty.
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