Zelensky Invites Trump to Peace Talks Amid Doubt Over Putin’s Participation

President Zelensky invites Trump to peace talks, believing it may pressure Putin to attend. Uncertainty surrounds Putin’s participation as the Kremlin remains silent on travel plans. Meanwhile, the urgency of the situation continues to escalate amid ongoing conflict.

In a notable move, President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine has extended an invitation to former President Donald Trump to join peace talks slated for this week. Zelensky believes Trump’s participation could create significant pressure on Russian President Vladimir V. Putin to attend, although he expressed skepticism regarding Putin’s genuine interest in pursuing dialogue or peace. This call for talks comes amid ongoing tensions between Ukraine and Russia, raising critical questions about the current state of diplomacy.

The Kremlin remains tight-lipped about Putin’s potential participation in the upcoming negotiations in Turkey. Dmitri S. Peskov, the spokesman for the Kremlin, stated that no announcements would be made about Putin’s travel plans until deemed appropriate. The peace talks, which are to occur on Thursday in Istanbul, are anticipated to attract significant attention given the ongoing conflict.

On Monday, Trump hinted at the possibility of joining the talks while concurrently addressing his scheduled visit to the Middle East. “Don’t underestimate Thursday in Turkey,” he remarked, implying that his involvement could be beneficial. This unexpected interest from Trump adds a new dimension to an already complex situation.

Over the weekend, Putin indicated a willingness for direct dialogue with Ukraine, yet he ignored calls from Kyiv and its allies to agree to an immediate cease-fire or face consequences, such as sanctions. In response, Zelensky heightened the stakes by declaring his intent to be present in Turkey for a possible face-to-face meeting with Putin, challenging him to make the same commitment.

In comments made on Tuesday, Zelensky specifically called out Trump’s potential influence, stating, “If he were to confirm his participation, I think it would give an additional push for Putin to come.” The significance of Trump’s involvement, Zelesnky argues, cannot be understated when it comes to Russian participation in the talks.

Speaking to reporters in Kyiv, Zelensky emphasized readiness on all fronts, noting he and Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan would await Putin in Ankara but are also prepared to travel to any location Putin chooses for the talks. The anticipation surrounding this meeting reflects the urgency and complexity of the geopolitical climate in the region.

In summary, President Zelensky has made a direct appeal to former President Trump to attend upcoming peace talks in Turkey, believing it might compel President Putin to engage. The Kremlin’s uncertainty about Putin’s attendance raises questions regarding the trajectory of these discussions. Amid these developments, Zelensky continues to prepare for any possibility while enhancing diplomatic efforts alongside Turkey, showcasing the intricate dynamics amid ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

Original Source: www.nytimes.com