Donald Trump

The Kremlin is trying to create the impression of a strong Russian military advantage before Putin's conversation with Trump. ISW analysts believe this is being done to divert attention from the problems of the Russian Federation.

The meeting took place against the background of concerns about Trump's planned conversation with Putin, where the conditions for ending the war in Ukraine will be discussed. Zelenskyy seeks to avoid imposing unacceptable conditions.

The US presented a 22-point peace plan in Istanbul, the first of which is a ceasefire, Trump's special representative said.

Volodymyr Zelensky sent Donald Trump a letter with proposals for cooperation in the defense industry and trade. He thanked the United States for supporting Ukraine and its efforts to end the war.

Steve Vitkoff stated that Trump's conversation with Putin will determine where the negotiating parties are. Trump plans to speak with Zelensky and NATO allies after his conversation with Putin.

In Rome, Zelenskyy met with representatives from the US and Europe. The cessation of the war in Ukraine was discussed ahead of Trump's talks with Putin and NATO leaders.

German Chancellor Merz announced plans to discuss the upcoming conversation with Putin with Trump. He spoke about this with Rubio and Zelensky in preparation for the negotiations.

In the Vatican, Volodymyr Zelenskyy met with US Vice President Pence for the first time after their dispute in the White House. It happened at the enthronement of the Pope.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz announced the continuation of pressure on Russia due to its aggression in Ukraine. He also called on Italy to take a more active part in European efforts.

The US Secretary of State announced Trump's desire to negotiate with Putin to resolve the stalemate in relations. Agreement on the details of the meeting is expected in the near future.

Olena Zelenska said that the meeting between Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Donald Trump was a difficult test. Despite this, the President of Ukraine withstood the tense conversation with dignity.

Dmitry Peskov confirmed the preparation of the conversation between Putin and Trump, which was announced by the head of the White House. Trump also plans to negotiate with Zelensky and NATO leaders on May 19.

U. S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio called for an end to the war after speaking with Lavrov. The U.S. presented a peace plan and supported the prisoner exchange reached in Istanbul.

Radosław Sikorski stated that NATO was created to deter Russia, and by 2030 the allies will become stronger. He emphasized that Putin "woke up the giant".

According to media reports, Russia demands that Ukraine renounce territories and reparations, and stated that a ceasefire is possible only after the withdrawal of Ukrainian troops from 4 regions that Russia considers its own.

Moody's downgrades US rating from Aaa to Aa1, citing failure to control debt. This is the first time in over 100 years, following actions by Standard & Poor's and Fitch.

On May 16, 145 combat clashes took place at the front. The hottest was in the Pokrovsky direction, where Ukrainian soldiers repelled 52 enemy attacks.

The presidential elections in Poland may influence relations with Ukraine, especially regarding the Volhynia tragedy and support for EU accession. Various scenarios are being considered depending on the winner.

Due to cuts in US aid, $98 million worth of food rations, enough for 3. 5 million people, are spoiling in warehouses. The Trump administration has cut programs, and supplies may be disposed of.

Ten prisoners escaped from a prison in New Orleans by breaking through a wall. Two were detained, eight are wanted, police are checking the involvement of prison staff.

The US President stated that he will likely plan a meeting with Putin, after which a peace agreement will be concluded. However, if there are no results at the negotiations in Turkey, Trump did not rule out the imposition of sanctions.

Slovenian Prime Minister Robert Golob has called for an expansion of the definition of defense spending in NATO. He believes that this will help meet US requirements to increase security spending.

Donald Trump has stated his willingness to visit China for negotiations with Xi Jinping on important issues. He also emphasized the importance of keeping Arab countries out of Beijing's influence.

Minister Sybiha emphasized that the negotiations with Russia in Istanbul showed the need to put pressure on the aggressor. An exchange of 1,000 prisoners was agreed, but Russia is not ready for peace.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has expressed disappointment over Russia's lost opportunity to start ceasefire negotiations. During the talks, Russia made unacceptable demands and threatened to seize new territories.

Donald Trump intends to find out the details of the negotiations in Istanbul. Macron supported the ceasefire in Ukraine and expressed regret over Putin's refusal to meet.

The Presidents of Ukraine and Montenegro discussed efforts for a just peace and strengthening cooperation in various fields, including European integration. They also agreed on a schedule of events with the participation of leaders of Southeast European countries.

Putin's plan to present the meeting in Istanbul as a continuation of March 2022 has failed. Ukraine will insist on a ceasefire and a direct meeting between Zelensky and Putin.

The negotiations between Ukraine and Russia in Istanbul had signs of theatricality, where each side promoted its own narratives. Sky News notes that the Russian Federation seeks to show readiness for diplomacy, but does not make concessions.

Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk stated that Russia did not show goodwill at the negotiations in Istanbul, putting forward unacceptable conditions. Politicians will continue to work for peace in Ukraine.