Putin Proposes Direct Peace Talks with Ukraine in Istanbul on May 15
Russian President Vladimir Putin has called for direct negotiations with Ukraine to take place in Istanbul on May 15, emphasizing Moscow’s readiness to resume dialogue without setting any prior conditions.
The Gaze reports on this with reference to Reuters.
In a statement from the Kremlin, Putin claimed that Moscow remains open to peace talks, placing the responsibility for previous negotiation breakdowns on Kyiv and its Western allies. He asserted that it was not Russia, but Ukraine, that walked away from the 2022 talks, which he said had led to a nearly finalized draft agreement.
“We are inviting the Ukrainian leadership to return to the negotiating table this Thursday, in Istanbul without any preconditions,” Putin said. “Our proposal remains on the table. The decision now rests with Kyiv and those guiding them, who, it seems, are driven more by personal political calculations than by the needs of their people.”
Putin emphasized Russia’s readiness for “serious talks” aimed at addressing the root causes of the conflict and achieving a long-term settlement. “We do not rule out the possibility of agreeing on new truces or lasting ceasefire – steps that would contribute to a durable peace, rather than serve as a pause before further fighting.”
The Russian leader criticized Ukraine for allegedly ignoring multiple ceasefire proposals and accused Ukrainian forces of launching attacks on Russian border areas during a recent three-day truce. Despite this, Putin insisted that Russia remains committed to dialogue.
“We are in a state of war, but we still offer a return to talks. Those who truly seek peace cannot reject this initiative,” he added.
Ukraine is “prepared to engage” with Russia for discussions following a complete and enduring ceasefire beginning May 12, according to Zelenskyy. “It’s encouraging that the Russians are finally considering ending the war,” Zelenskyy stated. “The entire world has been waiting for this for a long time.”
Observers remain cautious, as past initiatives from Moscow have been viewed by Kyiv and Western leaders as tactical maneuvers rather than sincere peace efforts.
Read more on The Gaze: What lies behind Putin’s second so-called ceasefire