Istanbul talks prove Putin is not interested in peace — Von der Leyen

She made the remarks during the European Political Community (EPC) summit in Albania.

Von der Leyen noted that Russian dictator Vladimir Putin initially called for a three-day truce on May 9 but then failed to honor his call and later rejected a proposal for a 30‑day ceasefire.

“And finally, he himself proposed a direct meeting between Ukraine and Russia in Turkey,” she added.

“President Zelenskyy was ready for this meeting, but Putin never appeared. This conclusively shows that Putin is not interested in peace. Therefore, we are forced to increase pressure.” 

The European Union is preparing a new package of sanctions against Russia, which is expected to be approved by member states later in May.

On May 15, German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul said many U.S. senators are ready to pass a bill that would impose new sanctions on Russia if the Kremlin “does not move” towards a ceasefire agreement with Ukraine.

The meeting between Ukrainian and Russian delegations, which lasted a little more than an hour, concluded on May 16 in Istanbul. Ukrainian officials said their side communicated with the Russian delegation through an interpreter.