Trump may come to negotiations in Istanbul: decision depends on Putin's participation

The possible arrival of US President Donald Trump in Istanbul, where Russian-Ukrainian negotiations will take place on May 15, remains an "open question." The American president's decision will largely depend on whether Russian President Vladimir Putin participates in the negotiations, according to a high-ranking official of the American administration.

"Everything is very dynamic right now. No one knows much," the official told the TV channel.

According to the official, Trump's statement about a possible trip to Istanbul put "great pressure" on Putin.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky had previously announced his visit to Istanbul on May 15. Trump suggested that he might attend the Russian-Ukrainian negotiations. According to Reuters, US presidential envoys Steve Witkoff and Keith Kellogg will travel to Istanbul.

The Kremlin has not yet announced who will represent Russia at the negotiations and whether Putin's participation is possible. According to Russian presidential press secretary Dmitry Peskov, Russia continues to prepare for negotiations with Ukraine, scheduled for May 15 in Istanbul.