**European Leaders Frustrated with Trump’s Inconsistent Approach to Russia-Ukraine War**
The recent high-level talks in Istanbul between Russian and Ukrainian negotiators ended without progress on a ceasefire, leaving European leaders frustrated with US President Donald Trump’s inconsistent approach to the conflict. The talks, which were held on May 16, saw Russian negotiators reiterate sweeping territorial demands, including Ukraine adopting neutral status and dropping claims for war reparations from Moscow.
According to Bloomberg, Russian negotiators insisted that Ukraine accept the loss of Crimea and four other regions, neither of which Russia fully controls. Meanwhile, Trump, who has positioned himself as a key broker in the conflict, said any real breakthrough would require a direct meeting between him and Russian President Vladimir Putin. Trump told reporters aboard Air Force One that he may call Putin, adding, “And if we don’t solve it, it’ll be very interesting.”
The talks in Turkey marked the first direct negotiations between Russia and Ukraine in three years, but European leaders were left disappointed as the Kremlin sent only low-level officials and repeated conditions Kyiv has repeatedly rejected. The situation has left European leaders worried about Trump’s unpredictable stance on the conflict.
**A Ceasefire and Prisoner Exchange**
Despite the lack of progress on a ceasefire, Russia and Ukraine have reached an agreement in Istanbul for the exchange of prisoners of war (POWs) on a 1,000-for-1,000 basis. Defense Minister Rustem Umerov, who was leading Ukraine’s delegation, told reporters after the talks that this development is a step forward.
**European Leaders Demand Action**
The situation has left European leaders demanding action from Trump. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer said, “A full, unconditional ceasefire must be agreed and if Russia is unwilling to come to the negotiating table, Putin must pay the price.” Meanwhile, some European officials are worried that Trump’s unpredictable stance could undercut momentum toward a unified Western response.
**Sanctions on the Table**
While European governments continue to threaten sanctions, including a new EU package targeting Russia’s shadow oil fleet and possibly the Nord Stream pipelines, some hope Trump will eventually support harsher measures. Senator Richard Blumenthal said, “President Trump has indicated he views sanctions favorably… I think the moment is now.” Others remain skeptical that Trump will endorse sweeping proposals like Senator Lindsey Graham’s “bone-crushing” sanctions package.
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