US President Donald Trump has sparked global intrigue by expressing willingness to join potential Ukraine-Russia peace talks in Turkey, contingent on Russian President Vladimir Putin’s attendance. This development, reported on May 14, 2025, comes amid heightened diplomatic efforts to resolve the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan offering to host negotiations in Istanbul. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has confirmed his attendance, challenging Putin to meet face-to-face, while the Kremlin remains ambiguous about Putin’s participation. This article delves into the geopolitical significance of these talks, Turkey’s historical role as a mediator, and a taste of Turkish culture through a traditional recipe.
Trump’s Potential Role in Istanbul Talks
On Wednesday, May 14, 2025, Trump told reporters aboard Air Force One, en route from Saudi Arabia to Qatar, “I don’t know that he [Putin] would be there if I’m not there. I know he would like me to be there, and that’s a possibility. If we could end the war, I’d be thinking about that” Reuters. This statement follows Putin’s proposal for direct talks in Istanbul, a counteroffer to a 30-day ceasefire demanded by Ukraine and European leaders, which Moscow rejected Al Jazeera. Zelenskyy has raised the stakes, insisting he will only negotiate with Putin himself, not lower-level delegates, and has urged Trump to attend to pressure Putin The New York Times.
[](https://www.reuters.com/world/rubio-discusses-way-forward-ukraine-ceasefire-with-european-counterparts-2025-05-13/)[](https://www.nytimes.com/2025/05/13/world/europe/russia-ukraine-putin-zelensky.html)[](https://x.com/AFP/status/1922613409482170696)Trump’s envoy, Keith Kellogg, expressed optimism, stating on Fox Business Network, “If Putin shows up, Trump will be there. This could be an incredible meeting” Reuters. However, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov has kept Putin’s plans unclear, saying the Russian delegation’s composition will be announced when “the president sees fit” The Guardian. The talks, scheduled for Thursday, May 15, 2025, could mark the first direct Ukraine-Russia negotiations since early 2022, making Turkey a pivotal stage for global diplomacy.
[](https://www.theguardian.com/world/live/2025/may/14/ukraine-russia-vladimir-putin-volodymyr-zelenskyy-peace-talks-turkey-latest-live-news-updates)[](https://www.reuters.com/world/trump-envoys-witkoff-kellogg-travel-turkey-russia-ukraine-talks-sources-say-2025-05-13/)Geopolitical Fact: Turkey’s Strategic Role in the Black Sea
Turkey’s unique geopolitical position has long made it a mediator in regional conflicts. Controlling the Bosporus and Dardanelles straits, Turkey regulates maritime access to the Black Sea, a critical factor in the Russia-Ukraine war. Under the 1936 Montreux Convention, Turkey has the authority to restrict warships’ passage during wartime, a power it exercised in 2022 to limit Russian naval movements BBC. This strategic leverage, combined with Turkey’s NATO membership and balanced relations with both Russia and Ukraine, positions it as an ideal host for these talks, underscoring its historical role as a bridge between East and West.
A Taste of Turkey: Menemen Recipe
To celebrate Turkey’s cultural richness, here’s a recipe for Menemen, a traditional Turkish scrambled egg dish bursting with flavor, often enjoyed at breakfast or as a light meal.
Ingredients:
- 4 large eggs
- 2 medium tomatoes, diced
- 1 green bell pepper, chopped
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add onions and sauté until translucent.
- Add green peppers and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.
- Stir in diced tomatoes and cook until they release their juices, about 5 minutes.
- Crack eggs into the skillet, season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Stir gently until eggs are just set, about 2-3 minutes.
- Garnish with parsley and serve hot with crusty bread.
This simple yet delicious dish reflects Turkey’s vibrant culinary tradition, perfect for a quick meal while following the latest geopolitical developments.
Author: Planet-Today.com
Via AFP
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