【Trump Demands Ukraine to Immediately Negotiate with Russia, Zelenskyy Says He's Ready to Meet Putin in Person】
On May 11th, U.S. President Trump posted on TruthSocial that Ukraine should immediately agree to Russia's proposal for direct negotiations in Istanbul on May 15th. "At least, they could determine whether an agreement can be reached. If not, European leaders and the United States would know the situation and take corresponding actions!"
"I began to doubt whether Ukraine will reach an agreement with Putin," Trump wrote. "Putin is busy celebrating the victory of World War II, which was impossible without the United States (not even close to achieving victory!)." Trump emphasized: "Meet immediately!!!"
On the other hand, Zelenskyy stated on a Telegram channel that he is prepared to meet with Putin during the negotiations. "We expect a ceasefire tomorrow - comprehensive and lasting, which lays the necessary foundation for diplomacy. There is no need to delay the killing. I will wait for Putin in Istanbul on Thursday (May 15th). I am ready to meet him personally. I hope the Russians won't find excuses this time for why they cannot do it."
Prior to this, Putin proposed during his speech at the Kremlin early on May 11th that Ukraine resume direct talks interrupted in 2022, starting on May 15th in Istanbul without preconditions. Earlier, Ukraine announced its readiness to implement a "comprehensive and unconditional ceasefire" for 30 days starting from May 12th, covering land, air, and sea. This decision was made after visits by French President Macron, German Chancellor Tusk, British Prime Minister Stammer, and German Chancellor Merz to Kyiv.
After Putin's speech, Zelenskyy said that "Ukraine is ready to meet," but only if Russia agrees to a 30-day ceasefire. Ukraine's European allies also made similar statements.
Original article: https://www.toutiao.com/article/1831860571003916/
Disclaimer: The article solely represents the author's views.