Zelenskyy discusses Russia peace talks failure with Trump and allies
- Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy engaged with President Trump and Western allies after peace talks in Turkey failed.
- Zelenskyy stated that tough sanctions are necessary if Russia continues to reject a ceasefire and emphasized the need for pressure on Russia.
- The failure of discussions indicates a lack of serious commitment from the Kremlin to achieve a peaceful resolution.
On May 13, 2025, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy engaged in discussions with President Donald Trump and key Western allies, including leaders from France, Germany, the United Kingdom, and Poland, following unsuccessful peace talks with Russia in Turkey aimed at establishing a ceasefire. These negotiations marked the first official dialogue between Ukraine and Russia in three years but ultimately ended without reaching an agreement on ceasefire terms. The discussions focused on maintaining pressure on Russia to end the ongoing conflict, with Zelenskyy emphasizing the necessity of a strong international response should Russia reject ceasefire proposals. French President Emmanuel Macron confirmed that Russia had declined to respond positively to the ceasefire proposal put forth by the United States, which was also supported by Ukraine. Macron expressed concern that Russia's rejection demonstrated a lack of genuine interest in peace, asserting that Russia seemed intent on prolonging the war instead. Amidst the diplomatic efforts, Trump framed the situation as one requiring direct negotiation between himself and Russian President Vladimir Putin, insisting that significant progress could not be achieved without such a meeting in person. The week leading up to these talks was described by many as a