Moscow, Russia — In an unexpected move, President Vladimir Putin has called for immediate negotiations with Ukraine, proposing talks to begin as soon as May 15. In a late-night televised address from the Kremlin, he emphasized the need for “serious discussions” aimed at addressing the underlying issues of the conflict and working toward a sustainable peace.
Putin’s statement followed a significant visit to Ukraine by European leaders, including UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and French President Emmanuel Macron. They urged for an unconditional 30-day ceasefire, a plea met with caution from Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov, who stated that Russia would need time to consider the proposal, while asserting that external pressure would be ineffective.
The Russian leader suggested that proposed negotiations could take place in Istanbul, Turkey, expressing hope that they might allow for new ceasefires or truces. He is expected to discuss the details with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in a scheduled conversation on Sunday.
Ukraine has yet to respond to Putin’s invitation for talks. In his address, the Russian president criticized Ukraine for not acknowledging three previous ceasefire proposals made by Moscow. These include attempts to halt attacks on energy infrastructure, an Easter truce, and a ceasefire coinciding with World War II commemorative events. Ukraine has consistently asserted that Russian strikes have not ceased during these proposed pauses.
Putin reiterated his openness to resuming talks with Kyiv, insisting that discussions should take place without preconditions. This assertion reflects a complex backdrop where both sides accuse each other of failing to adhere to earlier agreements and ceasefires.
As the situation evolves, the international community watches closely, hoping for a breakthrough in relations that have been fraught with conflict for over a year. The forthcoming discussions in Istanbul could signal either a path toward reconciliation or further entrenchment in hostilities.
