Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky will travel to Turkey, where talks with Russia could take place on May 15 — even if Moscow refuses to agree to a ceasefire beforehand, Axios reported, citing a Ukrainian official.
Zelensky had earlier said he was willing to meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin in person in Istanbul on Thursday, May 15, and expected Russia to agree to a “full and unconditional” ceasefire beginning Monday, May 12.
“In Ukraine, we have absolutely no problem engaging in negotiations — we are ready for any format,” Zelensky said in a video address released the evening of May 11. He added that he hoped “this time, Putin won’t be looking for excuses.” “We are ready to talk, to end this war. Thursday. Turkey,” Zelensky said.
On May 8, U.S. President Donald Trump called on both Russia and Ukraine to implement a “30-day unconditional ceasefire.” Two days later, Ukrainian officials said they were prepared to halt hostilities on land, at sea, and in the air “for at least 30 days” beginning May 12. In response, Russian President Vladimir Putin proposed resuming negotiations with Ukraine in Istanbul “without delay or any preconditions,” starting May 15. Ukrainian officials said they would be prepared to meet once Russia agrees to the 30-day truce.
Despite this, Russian forces launched attacks on Ukraine overnight on May 12, using strike drones and aerial bombs, according to the Ukrainian Air Force.