Daniel Davis Deep Dive Putin & Zelensky to Meet Face-to-Face in Istanbul? or will Zelensky Sink Talks Again?
May 12, 2025
The podcast dives into the tense diplomatic landscape between Ukraine and Russia, highlighting a proposed meeting in Istanbul. Zelensky's demand for a 30-day ceasefire is met with skepticism as Russia pushes for direct talks instead. The discussion emphasizes Zelensky's history of rejecting peace opportunities, raising questions about his current strategy. Listeners hear about the complexities of negotiations and the potential fallout from continued conflict. The episode critically assesses how rhetoric shapes the path toward peace amidst ongoing hostilities.
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Putin's Strategic Counter to Ceasefire
- Zelensky demanded a 30-day unconditional ceasefire from Putin but Putin countered with a proposal for direct talks in Istanbul instead.
- Putin's response reflects his strong military and strategic position, ignoring the ceasefire demand as unrealistic.
Trump and Zelensky's Contrasting Positions
- Former President Trump initially supported the ceasefire but later favored Russia's proposal to meet in Istanbul.
- Zelensky agreed to attend the meeting but continued to demand a ceasefire, showing conflicting stances.
Missed 2022 Istanbul Peace Deal
- A 2022 peace deal in Istanbul was close but rejected by Zelensky, costing possibly a million Ukrainian lives.
- The earlier deal included compromises on territory, denazification, and NATO but was declined despite potential to end conflict.