Zelensky says Ukraine is ready for any format before the conversation in Türkiye

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed his country's preparation for any type of negotiation before the talks between Russia and Ukraine in Turkey.

“Ukraine is ready for any negotiation format and we are not afraid of meetings,” he said in a video address on Wednesday night. “Tomorrow – in Türkiye.”

Zelensky has repeatedly asked Russian President Vladimir Putin to participate in the negotiations himself because he alone has power over war and peace in Russia. Andriy Yermak, head of the Ukrainian presidential office, called for sanctions on Russia if Putin does not travel to Türkiye.

Moscow has left the question of who attended the meeting. Putin started direct negotiations in Türkiye starting Thursday, but did not say whether he would participate. According to Russian daily Kommersant, it is clear that Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov will not exist.

Ukraine has defended its health for more than three years in Western aid.