Zelenskyy offers to meet Putin after Trump urges Ukraine to speak with Russia 'immediately' - in bid to end 'bloodbath'

The Ukrainian President has said he will be "waiting for" the Russian leader in Türkiye "personally" for the talks.

His comments come after President Trump insisted Ukraine accept Russia's offer as he urged the two to talk.

The US President said he is starting to doubt Ukraine will make a deal with Russia - whilst also accusing President Putin of being too caught up in celebrations to commemorate the end of World War 2.

He said on his social media platform Truth Social on Sunday: "President Putin of Russia doesn’t want to have a Cease Fire Agreement with Ukraine, but rather wants to meet on Thursday, in Turkey, to negotiate a possible end to the BLOODBATH.

"Ukraine should agree to this, IMMEDIATELY.

"At least they will be able to determine whether or not a deal is possible, and if it is not, European leaders, and the U.S., will know where everything stands, and can proceed accordingly!

"I’m starting to doubt that Ukraine will make a deal with Putin, who’s too busy celebrating the Victory of World War ll, which could not have been won (not even close!) without the United States of America.

"HAVE THE MEETING, NOW!!!"

Writing on X earlier, Zelenskyy said: "We await a full and lasting ceasefire, starting from tomorrow, to provide the necessary basis for diplomacy.

"There is no point in prolonging the killings.

"And I will be waiting for Putin in Türkiye on Thursday. Personally.

"I hope that this time the Russians will not look for excuses."

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Speaking to reporters early on Sunday, the Russian President proposed restarting direct negotiations with Ukraine on May 15 in Istanbul “without preconditions”.