Zelenskiy: Talks could be hosted by Turkey, Gulf states or European countries
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said on Tuesday that talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin could be hosted by Turkey, the Gulf states, or European nations, signaling openness to a venue beyond Kyiv for any potential negotiations. He stressed that he would pursue direct talks with Putin to help end the war, but Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov indicated no agenda had been prepared for such a meeting.
The remarks come as Kyiv presses for direct engagement with Moscow, while Moscow has shown hesitation in committing to a high-level rendezvous. Lavrov’s comment suggests that, for now, no formal framework or schedule has been set for a Putin-Zelenskiy meeting, leaving the door open to a range of diplomatic arrangements in the weeks ahead.
Turkey has repeatedly positioned itself as a mediator in Ukraine-Russia diplomacy, with discussions previously tied to Istanbul-based talks. Zelenskiy’s comment underscores the appeal of using multiple international venues to advance negotiations, including potential roles for Gulf partners or European mediators who could help broker credible proposals. Russia has not publicly confirmed Putin’s attendance or identified a representative for Istanbul-style discussions, complicating efforts to move from rhetoric to a concrete negotiation track.
Context around the diplomatic push includes ongoing international pressure for a ceasefire and guarded optimism about the potential to resume meaningful talks. Zelenskiy has consistently urged direct involvement from Moscow and has linked any negotiations to tangible steps such as a ceasefire and security guarantees, while Russia has emphasized its own terms for any talks.
As diplomacy continues to unfold, observers note that the choice of host nation could influence the tone and seriousness of any future discussions. A successful breakthrough would depend on Putin’s participation and the willingness of all sides to present credible concessions and timelines.
Key takeaways:
– Zelenskiy suggests multiple possible hosts for talks, including Turkey, Gulf states, and European countries.
– He remains committed to direct talks with Putin, but Lavrov says there is no agenda prepared yet.
– Turkey’s mediation role remains prominent, with Istanbul already a focal point in past diplomacy.
– The broader context includes international pressure for a ceasefire and ongoing strategic considerations, including recent battlefield dynamics and allied calls for credible proposals.
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