**Russia and US to Hold Phone Call Amid Stalemate in Ukraine Peace Talks**
Russian President Vladimir Putin is set to have a phone call with US President Donald Trump on May 19, according to the Kremlin. This announcement comes after last week’s peace talks in Istanbul ended without any significant breakthroughs.
The phone call is scheduled for 5 p.m. local time and aims to reflect on the outcomes of the negotiations between Russian and Ukrainian delegations that took place in Istanbul on May 16. These negotiations were marked by Russia making sweeping demands, including Ukraine’s adoption of a neutral status, dropping claims for war reparations from Moscow, and the recognition of Russian control over Crimea and four partially occupied regions.
Despite the stalemate in peace talks, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov has suggested that Russia remains open to reaching its goals through diplomacy. He even hinted that US mediation efforts could play a role in achieving this goal. “If U.S. mediation helps achieve the objectives of (the war) by peaceful means, Russia would prefer that option,” Peskov said.
It’s worth noting that Moscow has repeatedly claimed its readiness for peace while rejecting any ceasefire and pushing for maximalist demands. Trump is expected to call Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky after speaking with Putin. The Russian leader did not attend the peace talks in person, instead sending a delegation of lower-level aides.
**The State of Ukraine Peace Talks**
The stalemate in peace talks between Russia and Ukraine has been ongoing for months. Despite repeated declarations from Moscow about its readiness for peace, the country’s demands have remained unchanged. These demands include Ukraine adopting a neutral status, which would effectively mean giving up any aspirations to join NATO or the EU.
The fact that Putin did not attend the peace talks in person but instead sent a delegation of lower-level aides has raised eyebrows. This move can be seen as a way for Moscow to maintain its position without being seen as making concessions.
**What’s Next?**
The phone call between Trump and Putin on May 19 will likely shed more light on Russia’s intentions regarding the peace talks. However, given the country’s track record of pushing maximalist demands, it remains to be seen whether any progress will be made.
As we move forward in this crisis, one thing is clear: independent journalism needs a community that can hold leaders accountable for their actions. We’re working hard to show the world the truth of Russia’s brutal war, and we’re keeping it free for everyone because reliable information should be available to all.
Read More @ kyivindependent.com
