Pepe Escobar ‘Decodes’ The Istanbul Kabuki

US Vice President JD Vance met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Rome on Sunday (local time). Image: X@VP

| Published May 19, 2025

U.S. Vice President JD Vance and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy convened in Rome amid renewed efforts to negotiate a ceasefire in the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict. The meeting, held at the U.S. ambassador’s residence, coincided with Pope Leo XIV’s inauguration and was attended by U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio.

Discussions centered on the recent Istanbul talks between Ukrainian and Russian officials—the first direct negotiations in over three years. While these talks resulted in a significant prisoner exchange, they failed to produce a ceasefire agreement, as Russia’s demands were deemed unacceptable by Ukraine.

Zelenskyy emphasized Ukraine’s readiness for “real diplomacy” and reiterated the need for a full and unconditional ceasefire. He also highlighted the importance of continued pressure on Russia through sanctions and international support.

The Rome meeting occurred against the backdrop of escalating tensions, marked by Russia’s largest drone attack on Ukraine since the war began, resulting in civilian casualties and infrastructure damage.

European leaders, including those from Germany, France, and the UK, have expressed support for coordinated efforts to end the conflict, emphasizing the need for a unified approach in upcoming discussions with both U.S. and Russian counterparts.

As diplomatic engagements continue, the international community watches closely, hopeful that these renewed efforts may pave the way toward a lasting resolution to the conflict.

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The implications of the Rome meeting between U.S. Vice President JD Vance and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy are significant:

1. Strengthened U.S.-Ukraine Relations:

   • The high-level meeting reinforces U.S. diplomatic support for Ukraine, emphasizing a continued commitment to Ukraine’s sovereignty.

2. Pressure on Russia:

   • Ukraine’s insistence on maintaining sanctions and international support against Russia indicates that Kyiv is not willing to compromise on core issues, increasing pressure on Moscow.

3. Diplomatic Momentum:

   • With European leaders also advocating for a unified approach, the meeting could catalyze broader international coordination for a peaceful resolution.

4. Risk of Escalation:

   • The simultaneous increase in Russian attacks, including a massive drone assault, suggests that Moscow may escalate military actions as diplomatic pressure intensifies.

5. Potential Exclusion of Russia:

   • Zelenskyy’s focus on “real diplomacy” could indicate Ukraine’s openness to exploring peace talks without direct Russian involvement, a move that Moscow would view as unacceptable.

6. Humanitarian Concerns:

   • Ongoing civilian casualties from Russian strikes highlight the urgent need for effective conflict resolution, placing additional pressure on diplomats.

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Overall Takeaway:

The Rome meeting between U.S. Vice President JD Vance and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy is that diplomatic efforts to resolve the Russia-Ukraine conflict are intensifying, but meaningful progress remains elusive. While the U.S. and European allies continue to support Ukraine, Russia’s aggressive military actions and refusal to meet Ukrainian demands highlight the ongoing challenges of achieving a lasting peace. The situation underscores the delicate balance between maintaining diplomatic pressure on Moscow and avoiding further escalation.

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SOURCES: ZEROHEDGE – Pepe Escobar ‘Decodes’ The Istanbul Kabuki

BUSINESS STANDARD – JD Vance meets Zelenskyy in Rome to discuss Ukraine-Russia peace talks

REDSTATE – VP Vance, Ukraine’s Zelensky Meet in Rome, and Zelensky Waxes Rhapsodic on Negotiations Without Russia

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