Zelensky: Putin’s refusal to meet in Istanbul would confirm Russia’s unwillingness to end the war

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated this during a briefing, according to an Ukrinform correspondent.

“Ukraine has accepted all signals and proposals put forward by various parties—from the United States, European nations, and other partners. We have considered both publicly stated and behind-the-scenes initiatives,” Zelensky said.

“We have demonstrated absolute constructiveness, making it clear that we want the war to end. Meanwhile, Russia continues to demonstrate the opposite with every step it takes. If Putin does not come to the meeting and there is another game, it will be the final indication that they are not ready to end the war,” he added.

According to him, all commitments made by the United States, Europe, and other leaders must be upheld, as failing to do so would make it impossible to pressure Russia into de-escalation by any means.

“I expect at least a strong package of sanctions from the United States—sanctions against Russia. These will no longer be sanctions for aggression or occupation; there have already been enough compromises. Instead, they should be sanctions for the unwillingness to cease fire. It must be the strongest package of sanctions,” the President said.

As reported by Ukrinform, on May 10, Ukraine and its allies—France, Germany, the United Kingdom, and Poland—proposed a 30-day unconditional ceasefire. If rejected, Ukraine’s allies plan to strengthen sanctions against Russia.

Later, Putin proposed holding direct negotiations with Ukraine “where they were interrupted” in 2022 – in Istanbul, Türkiye.

Zelensky said he expects Russia to confirm a ceasefire starting Monday and will personally wait for Vladimir Putin in Türkiye on May 15.

U.S. President Donald Trump suggested he could fly to Istanbul, where President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky and Russian President Vladimir Putin may have a personal meeting.