Russia-Ukraine peace talks in Istanbul: what are the parties saying?

Direct peace talks between the presidents of Russia and Ukraine, Vladimir Putin and Vladimir Zelensky, are scheduled to be held in Istanbul on May 15, 2025. This meeting will be the first direct communication between the leaders of the two countries since the talks in March 2022.

Putin: "We are ready for negotiations without preconditions"

Russian President Vladimir Putin proposed direct talks with Ukraine without preconditions in a speech at the Kremlin on May 11. He said the talks could take place in Istanbul on May 15. Putin also said he had contacted Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and asked for his help in organizing the talks.

Kremlin aide Yuri Ushakov stressed that the negotiations should be conducted on the basis of the 2022 Istanbul agreement draft and the current state of play.

Zelensky: "We need a complete and reliable ceasefire"

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has demanded an unconditional 30-day ceasefire from Russia starting May 12, in response to Putin's proposal. He wrote on his social media page: "We are waiting for a complete and reliable ceasefire. I will be in Turkey on May 15 and will personally meet Putin."

Erdogan: "Historical turning point"

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan called the talks a "historic turning point" in a phone call with Putin and French President Emmanuel Macron on May 11. He expressed Turkey's readiness to host the talks and its desire to ensure a peaceful environment by implementing a ceasefire.

Trump: "Negotiations should begin immediately"

US President Donald Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform: "Putin does not want a ceasefire with Ukraine, but wants to meet in Turkey on May 15th to negotiate a permanent end to the war. Ukraine should accept this immediately."

He also expressed his willingness to see himself as a mediator in this process.

International relations and pressure

The leaders of the European Union - France, Germany and Poland - are demanding an unconditional 30-day ceasefire from Russia. If Moscow does not comply with this demand, the EU has said it may impose new economic sanctions. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has also expressed his support for the negotiations and is ready to provide technical mediation if necessary.

It is worth noting that the Russia-Ukraine talks to be held in Istanbul on May 15 will be a test for the hopes of peace around the world. This process could become a decisive stage for the war-weary regions and the international economy. Political will and a realistic approach are required from the parties. Turkey, in this case, is playing a historic role by calling on both sides to take a middle path.