In a rare late-night televised address from the Kremlin, Russian President Vladimir Putin invited Ukraine to engage in “direct talks” on 15 May, signaling a potential shift in diplomatic posture amid growing international pressure. The announcement came just hours after the leaders of the UK, France, Germany, and Poland visited Kyiv, collectively demanding an unconditional 30-day ceasefire from Moscow.
“We are seeking serious negotiations to move towards a lasting, strong peace,” Putin stated, suggesting the talks be held once again in Istanbul. He also indicated he would consult Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan to finalise the arrangements. However, Putin stopped short of committing to the ceasefire demanded by the European leaders.
Earlier Saturday, UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer stood alongside Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and fellow European leaders Emmanuel Macron, Friedrich Merz, and Donald Tusk. The coalition warned of “new and massive” sanctions targeting Russia’s energy and banking sectors if the Kremlin fails to comply with the proposed ceasefire across air, sea, and land.
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov responded cautiously, saying Moscow would “have to think this through,” while warning that external pressure would not alter Russia’s course. Ukraine has not yet responded to the invitation for direct talks.
The proposal introduces a fragile diplomatic opening, but the gap between calls for peace and conditions on the ground remains stark.
