Türkiye prepares for Trump’s potential visit with Putin
Photo: US President Donald Trump and Russian leader Vladimir Putin (Getty Images)
Turkish authorities are not expecting a visit from US President Donald Trump but are preparing for the possibility. There is a chance the US leader may visit alongside Russian President Vladimir Putin, Bloomberg reports.
High-ranking Turkish officials, speaking on condition of anonymity, stated that Türkiye is not anticipating Trump’s visit on Thursday, May 15, but does not rule out the possibility of his trip in the coming days, especially if Putin joins him.
The report noted that Trump’s travel plans are private. However, officials said that Türkiye is making necessary preparations for his potential arrival.
Trump's own comments also suggest that his presence may depend on Putin's attendance.
Who will be at the negotiations
It was reported that on the night of May 11, Russian leader Vladimir Putin proposed direct talks with Ukraine in Istanbul starting on May 15.
This was effectively his response to Ukraine and Europe’s ultimatum regarding a ceasefire.
European partners warned the Kremlin that if it rejects a ceasefire, new and stronger sanctions will be imposed on Russia.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that Ukraine is ready for dialogue only after a complete ceasefire.
However, soon after, he confirmed his readiness to personally meet with Putin on May 15 in Türkiye.
It should be noted that Zelenskyy agreed to direct talks with Putin in person.
Recently, it became known that US President Donald Trump is also considering a trip to Istanbul to participate in high-level negotiations, should they take place.
Later, however, Trump announced that US Secretary of State Marco Rubio would be present at the Ukraine-Russia talks.
For more information on the possible negotiations in Türkiye, read the material by RBC-Ukraine.
