Putin Proposes Direct Talks with Ukraine Amid Ceasefire Demands

Russian President Vladimir Putin has proposed resuming direct peace talks with Ukraine, suggesting a meeting in Istanbul on May 15 without preconditions. This initiative comes as Ukraine and its Western allies demand a 30-day unconditional ceasefire, threatening further sanctions if Russia does not comply.(Reuters, AP News)

Putin claims that previous negotiations were abandoned by Kyiv in 2022 under Western influence, despite a joint draft agreement being developed. He emphasizes Russia’s readiness for serious discussions to address the root causes of the conflict and establish long-term peace. However, he criticizes Ukrainian authorities and their Western supporters for prioritizing political ambitions over peace, accusing Kyiv of rejecting multiple Russian ceasefire proposals.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has expressed hope for a full ceasefire starting May 12 and is prepared to meet Putin in Turkey on May 15. This follows U.S. President Donald Trump’s encouragement for Ukraine to accept Russia’s proposal for direct talks, bypassing prior demands for a pre-talks ceasefire. European leaders, including those from France, Germany, the UK, and Poland, support the ceasefire proposal and warn of increased sanctions on Russia if rejected.

Despite diplomatic efforts, Russia resumed drone attacks on Ukraine after a brief self-declared pause, leading to mutual accusations of ceasefire violations. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan has expressed full support for hosting the negotiations, calling the situation a historic turning point.

The international community remains cautious, with skepticism about Russia’s commitment to peace due to its history of broken ceasefires and ongoing hostilities. The proposed talks in Istanbul could mark a significant move toward peace if both sides agree to come to the table.