Details of negotiations with Russians in Türkiye: Umerov reports to Zelenskyy (photos)

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy held a meeting during which Defense Minister Rustem Umerov reported on the work of the Ukrainian delegation and the negotiation process in Türkiye.

Zelenskyy shared this information on the afternoon of May 19.

«The most significant outcome of the meeting was the agreement on a prisoner exchange in the format of 1,000 for 1,000. Our team is now working out the details of the exchange. I’m grateful to everyone who is helping, ” the President said.

Rustem Umerov, as head of the delegation in Türkiye, provided specific details of the talks with the Russians.

According to Zelenskyy, the Ukrainian delegation managed to keep the conversation within dignified boundaries. All Russian threats were rebuffed. Ukraine insists on the need for a complete and unconditional ceasefire to save lives and provide the necessary foundation for diplomacy.

«Such a ceasefire must be sufficiently long and extendable. Our proposal, coordinated with partners, is 30 days. We are ready for this. We are also ready for a leaders’ meeting to resolve key issues. Ukraine is not afraid of direct negotiations with Russia, and it’s important that Russia’s leadership does not prolong the war, ” Zelenskyy stated.

Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha and Head of the President’s Office Andriy Yermak reported on meetings and contacts with representatives of the United States and European partners, including France, the United Kingdom, Germany, Italy, Poland, and Türkiye. Andriy Yermak presented the positions of key countries.

«We are coordinating with partners almost daily. I’m grateful for their support. I have instructed the formation of a permanent expanded national negotiation team, ” Zelenskyy added.