Zelensky Demands Cease-Fire in Response to Putin’s Call for Direct Talks
In a significant development in the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia, Russian President Vladimir Putin has proposed direct peace talks with Ukraine, offering a meeting in Istanbul on May 15 without preconditions. This marks the first serious peace overture since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, a conflict that has resulted in hundreds of thousands of casualties and significantly strained East-West relations. (reuters.com)
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy welcomed the proposal but emphasized that a full, temporary ceasefire must precede any negotiations. He reiterated Ukraine’s offer for a 30-day unconditional ceasefire starting May 12 and called for its immediate implementation to halt further bloodshed. (apnews.com)
European leaders have also weighed in on the situation. French President Emmanuel Macron criticized Russia’s recent drone attacks on Kyiv, describing them as a stalling tactic. He emphasized the need for a credible ceasefire to facilitate meaningful peace talks. (reuters.com)
In response to Russia’s actions, European leaders have threatened to impose new sanctions on Moscow if President Putin refuses to engage in the proposed ceasefire and peace talks. The Sanctioning Russia Act of 2025, a bipartisan bill introduced in the U.S. Congress, aims to impose extensive new sanctions on Russia and countries that purchase Russian energy and other critical exports if Russia refuses to negotiate a peace agreement with Ukraine or initiates another military invasion. (en.wikipedia.org)
The proposed peace talks in Istanbul represent a potential turning point in the conflict. However, significant challenges remain, including disagreements over territorial claims and security guarantees. The international community continues to monitor the situation closely, advocating for a peaceful resolution that respects Ukraine’s sovereignty and ensures regional stability.