Trump's Middle East visit, intends to go to Turkey to participate in Ukraine-Russia negotiations

Russian President Putin proposed last week that Ukraine and Russia hold direct talks in Turkey. Ukrainian President Zelenskyy has stated he will attend, while the outside world is paying attention to whether Putin himself will attend. This week, U.S. President Trump, who is on a Middle East trip, also expressed the possibility of attending together.

On Monday, May 12, U.S. President Trump departed for Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Qatar, among other countries. Before leaving, he indicated his intention to stop by Istanbul, Turkey, to participate in the direct Ukraine-Russia negotiations on Thursday, May 15. This Middle East tour is Trump's second overseas visit since taking office in January this year; in April, he attended the funeral of Pope Francis in Vatican City.

Trump said: "I don't know where I'll be on Thursday, with many meetings to attend, but I'm considering actually flying there (Turkey). I think it's possible if I think it can be successful."

He further stated: "I believe the Ukraine-Russia talks in Turkey on Thursday will have good results, and I also believe that the leaders of both countries will be present." When asked whether the United States would impose sanctions on Russia if Russian President Putin disagrees with the 30-day ceasefire proposal, he responded: "I feel that Russia will agree."

Europe warns of new sanctions against Russia

On the 12th, Germany issued a warning to Russia: If Russia cannot immediately join the 30-day ceasefire proposal starting today, Europe will impose a new round of sanctions. German government spokesman Cornelius said, "Time waits for no one."

The French government stated on the 12th that after the Kiev meeting last week, they requested the European Commission to begin preparing a new large-scale sanctions plan targeting Russia's oil and financial sectors.

Previously, the EU had already begun drafting the 17th round of sanctions against Russia, which is expected to be passed before the EU Foreign Ministers' Meeting on May 20.

Source: DW

Original article: https://www.toutiao.com/article/1831986022458368/

Disclaimer: The article only represents the author's personal views.