Overview

• Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has confirmed his attendance at the May 15 Istanbul peace talks, even in the absence of a cease-fire agreement.
• Russia continues to reject calls for a 30-day cease-fire, labeling Western demands as 'ultimatums,' while maintaining its military offensives, including 108 drone attacks reported overnight.
• The Kremlin has not disclosed whether President Vladimir Putin will attend the talks, stating that the decision will be announced at his discretion.
• U.S. President Donald Trump has expressed interest in attending the negotiations, emphasizing their potential significance, though his participation remains unconfirmed.
• China and Western leaders are urging a binding peace agreement, with European officials pressing for stronger sanctions on Russia if it refuses to engage meaningfully in the talks.