Breaking News: Ukraine-Russia Talks Take a Dramatic Turn -

By Musa Adamu

In a surprising development, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has agreed to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin in Turkey on Thursday, May 15, after US President Donald Trump urged him to accept Putin’s proposal for direct talks without delay.

Putin’s proposal, made in a televised statement, suggests holding direct negotiations in Istanbul without preconditions. However, European leaders and Ukraine had previously insisted on a 30-day ceasefire as a prerequisite for talks. Zelenskyy had echoed this demand, stating that Ukraine is ready to meet Russia once Moscow agrees to an unconditional 30-day truce.

Trump’s intervention changed the dynamics, with him urging Zelenskyy to accept Putin’s proposal immediately. “Ukraine should agree to this, IMMEDIATELY,” Trump wrote on Truth Social, arguing that direct talks could determine whether a deal is possible and allow European leaders and the US to proceed accordingly.

Zelenskyy has confirmed his attendance at the talks, tweeting, “I will be waiting for Putin in Türkiye on Thursday. Personally. I hope that this time the Russians will not look for excuses.” However, it’s unclear if Putin will attend in person.

The upcoming talks are crucial, with Putin’s proposal hinting at a potential shift in Russia’s stance. Russia’s Foreign Ministry has stated that addressing the conflict’s root causes is essential before discussing a ceasefire. The international community will be watching closely to see if these talks can bring about a peaceful resolution to the conflict.