Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy agreed to meet face-to-face with Russian President Vladimir Putin in Turkey on Sunday.
Putin had suggested a meeting on Thursday during the weekend, and President Donald Trump urged Zelenskyy to agree to the proposal. Putin emphasized that the discussions in Istanbul should occur without any conditions, aiming for a sustainable peace agreement.
Zelenskyy conveyed that they are anticipating a complete and enduring ceasefire to start the following day to create a solid foundation for diplomatic negotiations. He emphasized the futility of prolonging the loss of lives. Zelenskyy also stated his readiness to meet Putin in Turkey on Thursday, expressing his hope that the Russian side would not seek excuses this time.
On Sunday, Trump supported Zelenskyy’s decision to accept Putin’s invitation for a meeting. Ukraine and Russia are presently observing a ceasefire to commemorate the anniversary of the conclusion of World War II in Europe.
“Our proposal, as they say, is on the table,” Putin said. “The decision is now up to the Ukrainian authorities and their curators, who are guided, it seems, by their personal political ambitions, and not by the interests of their peoples.”
President Donald Trump says the talks between Zelenskyy and Putin could be an opportunity for lasting peace. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)
Putin’s proposal for direct talks came hours after European leaders demanded on Saturday in Kyiv that the Russian president agree to an unconditional 30-day ceasefire or face new sanctions. But Putin dismissed attempts by some European powers to issue what he described as “ultimatums.”
The Russian leader said he does not rule out that Moscow and Kyiv will agree on “some new truces, a new ceasefire” during negotiations in Turkey, saying that the talks would be the first step towards a “sustainable” peace.
Fox News’ Landon Mion contributed to this report.
