What will the format of the Istanbul talks be: Key points from Zelenskyy's address

President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy held several meetings with the negotiating team regarding the format of the meeting with the Russians in Türkiye. The actions of the Ukrainian side will depend on the composition of the Russian delegation.

The President announced this in his evening address to Ukrainians on Wednesday, May 14, 2025.

«While the whole world awaits a simple „yes“ from Putin in response to the offer of direct talks — he continues to strike Ukraine. There is no military logic behind this. This is clear. It brings him nothing — and it never will. Russia is only prolonging the war, prolonging these killings, ” Zelenskyy emphasized.

He expressed gratitude to all world leaders and states currently pressuring Putin and Russia to achieve a ceasefire and finally begin «normal, meaningful negotiations at a level that allows decisions to be made.» In particular, the President noted that Pope Leo XIV declared the Vatican’s readiness to act as a mediator in the peace process on the same day.

«The Vatican can help diplomacy. There is support for a direct meeting from Global South leaders — and that voice is being heard. We also know China’s position regarding a ceasefire and negotiations. The position of the United States and Europe is absolutely clear, ” Zelenskyy stated.

He stressed that the world now sees and realizes that the only obstacle to establishing peace is «Russia’s lack of clear will» to end the war.

«Today, we held several meetings with the team regarding the format in Türkiye. I am waiting to see who will come from Russia, and then I will decide which steps Ukraine should take. So far, the signals from them in the media are unconvincing. But we also hear that President Trump is considering attending the meeting in Türkiye. That could become the strongest argument. This week really may change a lot — but only may… Everything is being decided right now, ” Zelenskyy said.

He also reported that the front lines, particularly the Pokrovsk direction and other areas in Donetsk region, remain extremely challenging. Meanwhile, the Ukrainian Defense Forces continue active operations in Kursk and Belgorod regions to preemptively protect Ukraine’s border regions.

«But all these combat actions are not our choice — they are our defense, defense against the occupier. The answers to all the questions about this war — why it began and why it continues — all these answers lie in Moscow. How the war ends depends on the world. Ukraine is ready for any format of negotiations, and we are not afraid of meetings. Tomorrow — in Türkiye, ” Volodymyr Zelenskyy concluded.