Trump considering trip to Turkey for possible Zelenskyy–Putin talks

Tuesday 13 May 2025 - 10:03

By: Zahouani Ilham

Trump considering trip to Turkey for possible Zelenskyy–Putin talks

U.S. President Donald Trump has indicated he is contemplating a visit to Turkey this Thursday to potentially participate in peace talks between Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Trump, who has previously asserted he could resolve the war in a single day, has repeatedly urged both leaders to meet in an effort to halt the ongoing conflict. On Sunday, Zelenskyy publicly invited Putin to engage in direct negotiations in Istanbul. As of yet, the Kremlin has not issued a formal response.

Speaking Monday evening, Trump stated, “I was thinking about flying over. I don’t know where I’ll be on Thursday—I have so many meetings. But there’s a possibility if I believe something constructive can happen.”

Trump is currently in the Middle East on his first major international tour since returning to office, with visits planned to Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the United Arab Emirates.

Zelenskyy voiced support for Trump’s involvement in the proposed meeting, emphasizing his willingness to meet with Putin directly and welcoming Trump’s presence in Turkey. “I support President Trump’s idea of direct dialogue. I have expressed my readiness to meet, and the people of Ukraine would appreciate his presence,” Zelenskyy said.

Despite the diplomatic momentum, Russia has yet to confirm participation. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov stated Monday that no decision has been made about who, if anyone, will represent Russia in Turkey. “We are genuinely exploring options for a lasting peace settlement. That’s all I can say,” he remarked.

This uncertainty follows new pressure from a coalition of Western leaders, including UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, who threatened additional sanctions against Russia if it fails to comply with a newly proposed 30-day ceasefire beginning Monday. Russia dismissed the condition, instead reiterating its call for direct negotiations in Istanbul—an offer Zelenskyy has already accepted, while urging Putin to personally attend.

Nonetheless, skepticism persists among Ukraine’s Western allies. European Commission Vice President Kaja Kallas cautioned, “We want to see genuine interest from Russia in peace. Peace requires two sides; war only needs one—and Russia continues to show it prefers war.”

Meanwhile, Russian attacks on Ukrainian territory continued overnight into Tuesday, highlighting the ongoing volatility on the ground.