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On Sunday, Russian President Vladimir Putin called for direct negotiations with Ukrainian officials to halt the ongoing conflict that escalated following Moscow’s invasion in 2022. In a televised address, he emphasized that talks should be held in Istanbul without preconditions and aimed at fostering lasting peace. “We are proposing that Kyiv resume direct negotiations without any preconditions,” he stated, indicating that discussions should focus on the fundamental causes of the war. The Kremlin leader plans to consult Turkish President Tayyip Erdoğan about facilitating these talks, which he believes could lead to a ceasefire.
Putin’s overture was positively received by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, who expressed readiness for dialogue but insisted that Russia must agree to a ceasefire first. Zelenskyy viewed Putin’s statement as a hopeful indication toward ending the conflict, emphasizing that the first crucial step in ceasing hostilities is a genuine ceasefire. He urged Russia to confirm a “full, lasting, and reliable” ceasefire starting May 12, reinforcing Ukraine’s willingness to engage in peace talks thereafter.
Former U.S. President Donald Trump also commented on the situation, highlighting the potential for a significant reduction in casualties should the conflict come to a close. Trump characterized the moment as a potential turning point for both Russia and Ukraine, lauding the prospect of a new and improved world arising from the resolution of this prolonged bloodshed. He stated his commitment to liaising with both nations to foster a peaceful resolution, while positioning the U.S. to focus on rebuilding and commerce.
Putin’s call for dialogue followed European leaders’ demands for an unconditional 30-day ceasefire or the imposition of additional sanctions against Russia. However, he rejected the notion of ultimatums from European leaders, asserting that Moscow is open to discussions that could lead to “new truces” and lasting peace. He referenced previous ceasefire proposals, including moratoriums on attacks against energy infrastructure, indicating a willingness to negotiate terms but with clear expectations concerning Ukraine’s territorial concessions.
Despite Putin’s proposals for peace talks, military tensions remained high, as evidenced by reported drone strikes on Kyiv on the same day of his announcement, which resulted in injuries and property damage. This act has compounded skepticism about Russia’s commitment to ending hostilities given its simultaneous military aggression while calling for negotiations. Furthermore, Putin reiterated longstanding conditions for any resolution to the conflict, which include Ukraine renouncing aspirations for NATO membership and the withdrawal of Ukrainian forces from territories claimed by Russia.
Finally, Putin referenced a draft agreement from 2022, proposing that Ukraine maintain permanent neutrality in exchange for international security assurances from major powers. He positioned the narratives surrounding the breakdown of negotiations as originating from Kyiv’s actions, reaffirming Russia’s readiness to engage in talks without absolute prerequisites. He expressed gratitude towards various nations for their mediation efforts, illustrating his desire for a multifaceted approach to peace, albeit within a framework that aligns with Russia’s strategic interests.
