Zelensky Urges Tougher Sanctions on Russia if Istanbul Peace Talks Collapse

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky is calling on Western allies to ramp up pressure on Moscow if the latest round of peace negotiations in Istanbul fails to produce results.

Speaking at the European Political Community Summit in Tirana, Albania, Zelensky said both sides had a real opportunity to take "meaningful steps toward ending the war"—if President Vladimir Putin were willing to engage seriously in diplomacy.

"If the Russian delegation is only there for show and today’s talks lead nowhere, then we must respond strongly—with sanctions on Russia’s energy and banking sectors,” Zelensky said.

He emphasized that Ukraine’s top priority remains securing a “complete, unconditional, and credible ceasefire.”
“It must happen immediately to stop the bloodshed and create a firm foundation for diplomacy,” he said, adding that if Russian negotiators fail to reach an agreement, it would be “100% clear” that Putin is still blocking diplomatic progress.

French President Emmanuel Macron, also attending the summit, echoed the sentiment, accusing Russia of having “no genuine interest” in a ceasefire.
“The last few hours have shown that Russia is not ready to stop the war,” Macron said. “Without stronger pressure from Europe and the United States, peace won’t happen on its own.”

Zelensky’s comments came as Russian and Ukrainian officials met in Istanbul’s Dolmabahce Palace—their first face-to-face talks in three years. The closed-door session lasted about 90 minutes. While no official statements were released, Ukrainian sources expressed disappointment at the lack of progress.

The Russian delegation included presidential aide Vladimir Medinsky, Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Galuzin, Deputy Defense Minister Aleksandr Fomin, and military intelligence chief Igor Kostyukov. Ukraine’s delegation was led by Defense Minister Rustem Umerov, along with Deputy Prime Minister for Foreign Affairs Serhiy Kyslytsia, presidential aide Oleksandr Bevz, and senior defense and intelligence officials.

Meanwhile, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said on May 15 that a true breakthrough in the conflict “can only happen through direct talks between Presidents Trump and Putin.”

Asked to respond, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov acknowledged that direct contact between Russian and U.S. leaders is critical to any diplomatic resolution. He said Russia supports the idea of a Putin–Trump summit, but warned that such an event would require significant planning to ensure success.

(Sources: AFP, Reuters)

Hello Shuttle will strive to bring the latest updates. At the end of the day.

Are you looking for reliable airport and cruise port transfer services in Los Angeles?

We offer professional, safe, and punctual transportation from

Los Angeles Airport - LAX

Long Beach Airport - LGB

John Wayne Airport - SNA

San Pedro cruise port

Long Beach cruise port

Disneyland

and other destinations.

Let us make your journey stress-free and comfortable with our dedicated drivers and high-quality vehicles. Book now for the perfect travel experience at www.helloshuttle.com or call 944-800-5678!