Context:

President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine has called on President Donald Trump to attend upcoming peace talks in Turkey, hoping his presence would compel Russian President Vladimir Putin to participate. The Kremlin has not confirmed Putin's attendance, leaving uncertainty about Russia's commitment to the talks despite Zelensky's readiness to negotiate directly with Putin to agree on a cease-fire. The situation escalates as both Ukraine and its allies push for an immediate cease-fire, threatening additional sanctions if Russia does not comply. Trump has shown interest in joining the talks, aligning with his Middle East trip, which Zelensky has welcomed as a potential catalyst for Putin's involvement. European leaders are also pressuring Russia for a 30-day truce, with potential sanctions looming if no progress is made, although no new sanctions have been issued yet.

Dive Deeper:

• President Zelensky has urged President Trump to join peace talks in Turkey, aiming to pressure President Putin into attending, which Zelensky believes could lead to direct negotiations on a cease-fire.

• The Kremlin remains non-committal about Putin's participation in the talks, creating uncertainty about Russia's intentions and readiness for peace, despite earlier calls by Putin for direct talks.

• Zelensky and Turkish President Erdogan are prepared to meet Putin in any location of his choosing to prevent any manipulation of the situation by Russia, emphasizing the importance of leaders' level negotiations.

• The Trump administration is frustrated with the stalled progress towards a truce between Russia and Ukraine, with Trump questioning Putin's genuine interest in ending the conflict.

• Andriy Yermak, Zelensky's chief of staff, highlighted Trump's expectations for both Zelensky and Putin to be present in Turkey, signaling that Putin's absence would indicate Russia's unwillingness to negotiate.

• European allies are pressing for an unconditional 30-day truce, with threats of additional sanctions if Russia does not comply, but as of the report, no new sanctions have been announced.

• Chancellor Friedrich Merz of Germany has indicated that further sanctions at the European level would be considered if no tangible progress is achieved in the talks this week.