Russian President Vladimir Putin has proposed direct negotiations with Ukraine to take place on May 15 in Istanbul, aimed at establishing lasting peace by addressing the core issues of the ongoing conflict. Since launching an invasion in February 2022, the war has resulted in devastating casualties and marked a significant escalation in tensions between Russia and the West, reminiscent of the Cold War’s peak.
In a statement from the Kremlin on Sunday, Putin emphasized that these talks should not merely serve as a temporary halt to hostilities but rather strive for a sustainable resolution. “We propose that Kyiv resume direct negotiations without any preconditions,” he said. The Russian leader’s proposal comes despite ongoing pressure from U.S. President Donald Trump and European leaders, who have consistently urged for concessions from Moscow to bring the conflict to an end.
Putin indicated that he would discuss the negotiation process with Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan later on Sunday, believing these discussions could pave the way for a ceasefire. He remarked, “Our proposal is on the table. The decision is now up to the Ukrainian authorities and their backers, who seem guided by personal political ambitions rather than the interests of their people.”
This proposal comes on the heels of demands from significant European powers for an unconditional 30-day ceasefire. Putin dismissed these calls, labeling them ultimatums. He reiterated that Russia has previously suggested several ceasefires, including a moratorium on strikes against energy facilities and a temporary truce during the recent World War II commemorations.
Tensions remain high as both Ukraine and Russia have accused one another of violating ceasefire agreements, including a recent truce from May 8 to 10. Ukrainian officials reported that on Sunday, Russian forces launched a drone attack on Kyiv and other regions, although initial reports did not indicate any casualties or damage.
While Putin remains open to the potential for new ceasefires during the proposed talks, he has maintained firm conditions for any resolution of the conflict. Notably, he has insisted that Ukraine renounce its NATO aspirations and pull back its troops from four regions claimed by Russia. Additionally, Russian officials have called for the recognition of Moscow’s control over approximately 20% of Ukraine and have demanded that Ukraine adopt a neutral stance, although they have expressed no opposition to Kyiv’s aspirations to join the European Union.
Referencing ongoing negotiations, Putin stated, “It was not Russia that broke off talks in 2022. It was Kyiv.” He underscored Russia’s readiness to engage without preconditions and expressed gratitude toward China, Brazil, and various Middle Eastern nations for their mediation efforts in the conflict.
As both nations remain divided on key issues, former U.S. President Trump continues to advocate for a swift end to what he terms the “bloodbath” of war, positioning it within the broader context of U.S.-Russia relations. Meanwhile, President Biden and European leaders regard the conflict as an imperialistic incursion and have vowed to support Ukraine in defeating Russian forces. In essence, this ongoing conflict represents a critical moment in Moscow’s relations with the West, which Putin claims have historically marginalized Russia since the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991.
Original Source: https://www.cnbc.com/2025/05/11/putin-proposes-direct-peace-talks-with-ukraine-after-3-years-of-war.html
Category :
Tags:
Publish Date: 2025-05-11 13:13:00
