Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has announced that his country is ready for “any format” of peace talks with Russia, set to take place in Turkey.
The next steps for Kyiv will depend on who Moscow sends to the negotiating table. This development comes amid renewed diplomatic efforts to end the war, which has been ongoing for nearly three years.
##Peace Talks Location and Format*:
The talks are scheduled to take place in Istanbul, Turkey, with Zelenskyy expressing willingness to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin directly.
But before the meeting Putin has proposed negotiations without preconditions, though the world leaders have reacted cautiously, warning that it could be an attempt to buy time.
The Russian attacks still continue in Ukraine;
Despite the peace talks, Russia has continued shelling areas in Ukraine’s Sumy and Kherson regions, killing several civilians and casting doubt on Moscow’s intentions.
– *International Reaction*:
French President Emmanuel Macron described Putin’s move as “a first step, but not enough,” while US President Donald Trump welcomed the push for peace, emphasizing rebuilding and trade.
## Global Leaders’ Stance
– *US President Donald Trump*: Trump has expressed enthusiasm for the peace talks, stating that hundreds of thousands of lives will be saved and emphasizing the importance of rebuilding and trade. He added that the US wants to focus on these aspects.
– *European Leaders*:
Leaders of France, Germany, Poland, and the UK have jointly called for an immediate ceasefire and threatened further sanctions if Russia fails to comply.
## Challenges Ahead
– *Ceasefire Conditions*:
Putin has warned that any truce must lead to “lasting peace” rather than giving Ukraine time to rebuild its military. Zelenskyy’s office responded, stating that an unconditional ceasefire cannot be subject to conditions.
– *Moscow’s Intentions*:
The Kremlin’s continued shelling and demands for conditions on a ceasefire have raised questions about its sincerity in pursuing peace talks
