US Special Representative Steve Witcoff canceled his visit to Putin due to his refusal to discuss the 22-point peace plan developed jointly with Ukraine and Europe. The plan was discussed between Ukrainian and American officials.
Johann Wadephul stated a security threat due to Russia's "shadow fleet" and confirmed the EU's plans for new sanctions. The 17th package of sanctions will tighten measures against these vessels.
The EU and Britain have reacted to the Russian Federation's strike on a civilian bus in Sumy region, where 9 people died. Leaders call for an immediate ceasefire.
A meeting of the heads of state is possible after reaching certain agreements between the delegations of the parties. Russia will prepare and submit to Ukraine a list of conditions for a ceasefire.
On the night of May 17, Russia attacked Ukraine with 62 drones. Air defense forces shot down 36 enemy UAVs in the eastern, northern, southern, western and central regions.
The President of Ukraine emphasized that strong sanctions against Russia are necessary for real diplomacy and ending the war. He noted the weakness of the Russian delegation in Istanbul.
As a result of the Russian attack on the bus, 9 people died, including a family. Zelenskyy emphasized the need to strengthen sanctions against the Russian Federation to stop the killings.
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.
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 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.
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.
Volodymyr Zelenskyy met with the Prime Minister of the Netherlands, discussing support, strengthening air defense, and investments in drone production. He also held talks with the leaders of Denmark, Moldova, Bulgaria, and Sweden.
Volodymyr Zelenskyy met with Rosen Zhelyazkov and discussed a ceasefire and security guarantees. They also talked about the completion of the Khmelnytskyi NPP and cooperation in the Black Sea region.
Denmark, one of the leaders in supporting Ukraine, is preparing the 26th package of military aid. Zelenskyy discussed further support and investments in the defense industry with the Prime Minister of Denmark.
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.
Zelenskyy discussed with the Prime Minister of Sweden the results of negotiations in Turkey and increased pressure on Russia. The parties also focused on cooperation within the coalition of willing parties.
The President of Ukraine met with EU leaders, thanking them for the preparation of the 17th sanctions package. They discussed increasing pressure on Russia and supporting Ukraine on its path to the EU.
According to Kyslytsia, many issues can only be resolved at a meeting between the leaders of Ukraine and Russia.
Negotiations between Ukraine and Russia in Istanbul were positive, despite Russia's demands for troop withdrawal. An exchange of prisoners was discussed, but the Russian delegation did not have the authority.
German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius stated the need to prepare for a ceasefire in Ukraine. He emphasized the importance of dialogue and support for Ukraine.
At the talks in Istanbul, the Ukrainian delegation discussed the possibility of a meeting between Zelensky and Putin. It is at such a meeting that an agreement on a ceasefire can be reached.
Negotiations in Istanbul ended without a breakthrough on a ceasefire due to unrealistic conditions set by the Russians. European leaders are coordinating actions and condemning Moscow's position.
The negotiations with Russia discussed the exchange of prisoners and a ceasefire. The next step could be a meeting between Zelenskyy and Putin at the highest level.
António Costa and Ursula von der Leyen assured of their support for Ukraine and emphasized the strengthening of sanctions against Russia. This is being done to force Putin to negotiate for peace.
Volodymyr Zelensky met with Maia Sandu to discuss ways to achieve peace and strengthen cooperation. They also talked about energy security and the impact of elections in Europe.
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz assured of further support for Ukraine in the war with Russia after a conversation with Donald Trump. He stressed that Germany will not stop helping Ukraine until the end of the war.