**Progress in Ukraine-Russia Peace Talks Possible in Next 2 Weeks**
NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte has expressed optimism that the settlement of Russia’s full-scale war against Ukraine may see progress over the next 10-14 days. This comes ahead of possible direct peace talks between Kyiv and Moscow in Istanbul on May 15.
Rutte made his comments in an interview with Turkish state news agency Anadolu, where he noted that there is a “window of opportunity” this week and the next two weeks to bring the issue of Ukraine to a better place. He also highlighted the important role Turkey plays in facilitating these peace talks, alongside the leadership of President Volodymyr Zelensky and support from the American government.
However, it remains unclear whether Putin will attend the talks himself. Despite Zelensky’s invitation for an in-person meeting, Putin was not on the list of Russian representatives revealed by the Kremlin until late on May 14. This development has sparked uncertainty about Ukraine’s next steps if Putin does not join in person.
**Zelensky Waits to See Who Will Represent Russia**
Ukraine’s president, Volodymyr Zelensky, has stated that he will decide which steps Ukraine should take once it is clear who will represent Russia at the talks. He insisted on a meeting only with Putin to discuss an unconditional ceasefire and an all-for-all prisoner exchange.
The Russian delegation reportedly arrived in Istanbul ahead of the expected talks with the Ukrainian delegation. Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump initially expressed readiness to attend the potential high-level meeting between the two leaders if Putin arrived, but later announced that he would not be attending after a White House official clarified his stance on May 14.
**A Critical Moment for Ukraine-Russia Peace Talks**
The developments mark a critical moment in the ongoing peace talks between Ukraine and Russia. The international community closely watches the situation as any progress could have significant implications for regional stability and global security. As tensions remain high, it is essential to carefully monitor the situation and assess the next steps that will be taken.
**What’s Next?**
The fate of these peace talks hangs in the balance as Ukraine waits to see who will represent Russia at the negotiations. Will Putin participate in person, or will his absence derail the process? Only time will tell.
