Putin Open to Direct Peace Talks with Ukraine as Global Leaders Demand Ceasefire

In a surprise late-night address, Russian President Vladimir Putin announced Russia’s willingness to hold direct negotiations with Ukraine, proposing Istanbul as the venue for talks starting May 15. The talks, he stated, would proceed without any preconditions and aim to address the “root causes” of the three-year-long conflict.

Putin emphasized the need for “serious negotiations” that could lay the groundwork for long-term, durable peace, rather than being a temporary halt followed by further escalation.

The announcement came shortly after European leaders — including those from Germany, France, the UK, and Poland — joined with U.S. President Donald Trump in pressuring Moscow to accept a 30-day ceasefire starting Monday. French President Emmanuel Macron, visiting Kyiv, warned that failure to comply could lead to massive sanctions.

Despite the international push, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said Russia remains resistant to pressure, while acknowledging general support for a ceasefire — albeit with “many unanswered questions.”

Ukraine and its Western allies have consistently called for an immediate ceasefire, but Russia has hesitated to formally agree, citing “nuances” that require resolution. Putin said any truce must not serve as a cover for Ukraine to regroup militarily.

Putin also plans to discuss the matter further with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.

The proposal signals a potential diplomatic opening, though skepticism remains high amid ongoing military activity and geopolitical tension, especially around NATO’s influence in Eastern Europe — a point repeatedly raised by Putin.