Introduction
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has called on former U.S. President Donald Trump to acknowledge Russian President Vladimir Putin as the primary barrier to achieving peace in Ukraine. Zelenskyy emphasized the necessity of direct negotiations with Putin to facilitate a ceasefire and a sustainable resolution to the ongoing conflict. He expressed hope that upcoming diplomatic efforts, including potential talks in Turkey, might catalyze progress if Trump participates, pressuring Putin to engage seriously. The Guardian
Direct Negotiations with Putin
Zelenskyy has stated that he will only negotiate directly with Putin to end the war, dismissing talks with other Russian officials. He is expected in Turkey for potential peace negotiations and is scheduled to meet Turkish President Erdogan. Despite agreeing to attend the proposed Istanbul summit, Zelensky remains skeptical about Russia’s willingness to cease hostilities, asserting that only Putin can decide the war’s outcome. The Times
Upcoming Peace Talks in Turkey
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced he will travel to Ankara on Thursday to await Russian President Vladimir Putin for potential face-to-face negotiations aimed at ending the war that has lasted over three years. The talks, supported and encouraged by U.S. President Donald Trump and European leaders, are seen as a critical step toward achieving a ceasefire. While Zelenskyy confirmed his willingness to negotiate directly with Putin, the Russian president has yet to confirm his attendance, with the Kremlin remaining noncommittal. AP News+1Reuters+1
International Support for Peace Efforts
President Trump has prioritized brokering peace and plans to send Secretary of State Marco Rubio along with senior envoys Steve Witkoff and Keith Kellogg to the talks. Trump also indicated he would attend if Putin is present. Recent Russian bombings in Ukraine’s Kharkiv region killed at least three people, highlighting the ongoing violence. The newly elected Pope Leo has pledged to support peace efforts. Reuters+1AP News+1
Conclusion
The upcoming peace talks in Turkey present a pivotal opportunity for direct dialogue between Ukraine and Russia. Zelenskyy’s insistence on negotiating solely with Putin underscores the necessity of engaging with the key decision-maker to achieve a lasting resolution. The involvement of international leaders, including President Trump, may provide the necessary pressure to facilitate meaningful negotiations.
