“Stop the Bloodshed Now!” Trump Urges Ukraine to Hold Talks with Putin in Istanbul

Former U.S. President Donald Trump has publicly urged Ukraine to accept Russian President Vladimir Putin’s proposal for direct peace talks in Istanbul on May 15, 2025. Trump emphasized the urgency of ending the ongoing conflict, stating, “Stop the bloodshed now!” He argued that the proposed meeting could determine if a peaceful resolution is achievable and, if not, would allow Europe and the United States to take preparatory steps.

The Russian proposal for talks does not include a precondition of a ceasefire, which Ukraine and its Western allies have insisted upon. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has expressed willingness to attend the negotiations, provided that a full, unconditional ceasefire begins on May 12. However, Putin has rejected this demand, suggesting that a truce could be negotiated during the talks.

European leaders, including those from France, Germany, and Poland, have visited Kyiv to show solidarity with Ukraine and to urge Russia to accept the ceasefire. They have warned of increased sanctions and additional military aid if Russia refuses to comply. The Kremlin has indicated a willingness to engage in talks but insists that Western military support to Ukraine must cease.

Trump’s call for negotiations marks a shift in U.S. policy, which had previously been characterized by strong support for Ukraine. In March 2025, Trump ordered an indefinite pause on all U.S. military aid to Ukraine, citing dissatisfaction with Zelenskyy’s commitment to peace negotiations. This decision has been criticized for potentially weakening Ukraine’s defense and emboldening Russia.

The upcoming talks in Istanbul are seen as a critical opportunity to assess the prospects for peace. While the lack of a preconditions ceasefire remains a significant obstacle, the willingness of both sides to engage in dialogue offers a glimmer of hope for a resolution to the conflict.

As the situation develops, the international community watches closely, hoping that the Istanbul talks will pave the way for a lasting peace in the region.