On Sunday, Russian President Vladimir Putin announced his country’s readiness to resume direct talks with Ukraine to negotiate an end to the ongoing war, proposing that discussions begin on May 15 in Turkey without preconditions. This statement came as the three-day ceasefire declared by Russia was set to conclude. He accused Ukraine of previously abandoning talks and violating ceasefire agreements, although both sides have been criticized for breaches during past ceasefires. Putin expressed a desire for serious dialogue that could lead to a long-lasting peace.
The announcement coincided with a warning from leaders of the UK, France, Poland, and Germany threatening increased sanctions against Russia if it does not agree to an unconditional 30-day ceasefire starting Monday. During a news briefing, these leaders, alongside Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, underscored the urgency of the situation. This proposal had also received support from U.S. President Trump, who was briefed earlier.
The intent of the ceasefire is to stop hostilities across various fronts, allowing for diplomatic negotiations to end the nearly three-year conflict. Retired Lt. Gen. Keith Kellogg, Trump’s envoy to Ukraine, highlighted the ceasefire’s potential to initiate a resolution to what has become Europe’s longest war since World War II.
Putin’s prior assertions included demands for Ukraine to renounce NATO membership and to recognize Russian authority in annexed territories. He has stated that Russia possesses enough military power to sustain the conflict indefinitely but hopes to avoid nuclear options.
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