Trilateral peace talks in Istanbul: does Trump really come?

Trilateral peace talks in Istanbul: does Trump really come?

On Friday, May 16, 2025, trilateral peace talks between Russia, Ukraine and Turkey take place in Istanbul. These talks were confirmed by the Turkish Foreign Ministry after a meeting between Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan and the Russian delegation. An important component of the discussion is the possible participation of US President Joe Biden, who is considering a detour to Istanbul during his trip through the Golf region. It is surprising, however, that both the Ukrainian President Wolodymyr Selenskyj and Russian President Vladimir Putin will probably not personally take part in the talks, which could dampen the hopes of progress. This in turn reduced the probability that Donald Trump, who had previously been interested in participating, will also be present.

Trump plans to return to Washington from his trip to the Gulf States on Friday, but leaves short -term changes open. The situation is experiencing a new turn after Trump has signaled to want to take part in the negotiations. These conversations were initiated in particular by an ultimatum of Ukraine to a ceasefire, to which Putin reacted to direct peace talks without priority. He also announced a conversation with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, but without closer to the 30-day ceasefire offer required by Ukraine.

background of the conversations

According to Tagesschau.de, the Kremlin spokesman Peskow refers to the threat of further sanctions by western countries as "unacceptable". In addition, the ongoing Russian attacks on Ukrainian areas are worrying, and the international political dynamics remain tense. Erdoğan still sees a new chance for peace and emphasizes Turkey's willingness to act as a host for talks.

difficulties and expectations

Progress in peace negotiations are often rare, especially when the heads of state meet. Analysts emphasize that detailed negotiations between civil servants are necessary before such a meeting. The military advances in Russia are seen as means of pressure in the negotiations, while Ukraine and European governments explain that Russia's refusal to agree to a ceasefire shows that Putin has little interest in peace.

The talks in Istanbul could not only offer an opportunity for an agreement, but also influence the political landscapes of the sides involved. Central points of the negotiations have already been identified in previous conversations, including the question of the ceasefire line and the legal status of the occupied areas. An agreement could leave both sides dissatisfied, but minimize the risks of an ongoing war, as in an article by [telepholis.de] (https://www.telepolis.de/featspraeche-ukraine-russland- through- or sackgasse-10383178.html).