**Ukraine’s Zelensky Ready to Meet Putin, Demands Immediate Ceasefire**
In a dramatic turn of events, Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky has announced that he is ready to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin in Turkey on May 15. However, the Ukrainian leader made it clear that any talks must be preceded by an immediate and unconditional ceasefire.
“This is no longer about prolonging the killings,” Zelensky said in a statement. “I will wait for Putin on Thursday in Turkey, but only if there is a complete and lasting ceasefire from tomorrow.”
The development comes as Ukraine’s allies push for direct talks between Russia and Ukraine to end the conflict. However, Russian President Putin has rejected an immediate ceasefire, instead suggesting that peace talks be held in Istanbul beginning May 15.
**Ukraine Insists on Ceasefire**
Zelensky has repeatedly called for a 30-day unconditional ceasefire, saying that any negotiations must begin with a full cessation of hostilities. Ukraine’s allies, including the United States and European countries, have also urged Russia to agree to a 30-day ceasefire beginning May 12.
However, Russian authorities have listed maximalist demands in ceasefire negotiations brokered by the US, and Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov has rejected the idea of a 30-day ceasefire, claiming it would be an advantage for Ukraine.
**US President Trump Weighs In**
In a statement on May 11, US President Donald Trump urged Russia and Ukraine to hold peace talks “immediately.” However, in a move that is seen as backing Putin’s position, Trump also called on Ukraine to agree to meet with Putin in Turkey without any preconditions.
“This time the Russians don’t want to have reasons why they cannot,” Zelensky said. “I hope this time they will not look for excuses.”
**A Ceasefire or a Meeting?**
The move by Zelensky is seen as an attempt to bring some urgency to the conflict, which has claimed hundreds of lives in recent weeks. However, it remains to be seen whether Putin will agree to a ceasefire before meeting with Zelensky in Turkey.
As Ukraine’s allies continue to push for direct talks between Russia and Ukraine, one thing is clear: any negotiations must begin with an end to the bloodshed on both sides.
