On May 11, 2025, Vladimir Putin proposed direct peace talks with Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Istanbul to discuss ending the war in Ukraine. Donald Trump reacted positively, but Zelenskyy insisted on meeting only if both the U.S. and Turkey mediated. However, the Kremlin remained silent about Putin’s potential attendance, creating doubts among American and Ukrainian officials. Despite Trump’s offer to visit Turkey as a mediator, the summit was left hanging due to Russia’s decision to send a low-level delegation without Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov.
Upon arrival in Ankara, Zelenskyy criticized Moscow for sending what he described as a ‘decorative’ team incapable of making decisions. This sparked backlash from Russia, with Maria Zakharova condemning Zelenskyy. Meanwhile, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov dismissed Zelenskyy’s demands for Putin’s presence.
Zelenskyy met Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan for three hours, discussing the war and bilateral issues. During a press conference, Zelenskyy reiterated that if technical ceasefires could be achieved, his meeting with Putin might not even be necessary. He emphasized that any negotiations must aim for an unconditional ceasefire. If Moscow shows no willingness to engage, other countries should increase political and economic pressure on Russia through further sanctions.
Erdogan expressed Turkey’s readiness to host peace talks between Zelenskyy and Putin whenever they are prepared. Meanwhile, the head of Russia’s negotiating team, Vladimir Medinsky, stated that Moscow seeks long-term peace with Kyiv by addressing conflict causes constructively. Nevertheless, the current talks are considered low-level since neither state leaders nor top officials participate.