Zelensky, European leaders speak with Trump, call for pressure on Russia following Istanbul peace talks

Editor's note: This is a developing story and is being updated.

President Volodymyr Zelensky and several top European leaders held a phone call with U.S. President Donald Trump on May 16, the Ukrainian leader announced on Telegram.

The conversation took place shortly after the conclusion of the Russia-Ukraine peace talks in Istanbul, which ended with little progress beyond an agreement on prisoner exchange.

French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, and Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk joined Zelensky during the call.

"Ukraine is ready to take the fastest possible steps for real peace, and it is important that the world holds strong positions," Zelensky wrote.

"If the Russians refuse a complete and unconditional stop to the fire and killings, there must be strong sanctions. Pressure on Russia must be maintained until Russia is ready to end the war."

Soon after Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk echoed the condemnation of Russia's unwillingness to stop the fighting.

"The Russians in Istanbul have de facto broken off negotiations and refused to cease fire," Tusk wrote on X. "Time to increase the pressure."

No further details were provided about the content or duration of the call.