Saturday, March 29, 2025
Russian President Vladimir Putin has offered to hold direct peace talks with Ukraine, without any preconditions. The talks could take place on May 15 in Istanbul, Turkey. His proposal comes at the end of a three-day ceasefire, declared by Moscow during Victory Day celebrations.
“We are ready to speak directly with Kyiv, without any conditions,” Putin said during a press briefing on Sunday. His remarks came just after Russia concluded its commemorations of 80 years since victory over Nazi Germany.
Putin accused Ukraine of walking away from earlier negotiations in 2022. He claimed both countries had created and signed a joint peace framework. However, he said, Western nations interfered and encouraged Kyiv to abandon the agreement.
“Russia never broke off the talks,” Putin stated. “We kept trying to reach a ceasefire. But Ukraine ignored every proposal.”
While Russia had announced a unilateral ceasefire during Victory Day, Ukraine claimed Moscow violated it. Ukrainian officials said Russian troops continued attacks during the truce.
Putin rejected those allegations. He said Ukraine did not respect the ceasefire and instead attempted attacks at five different border points during the pause.
Putin’s peace offer comes amid rising tensions and heavy losses on both sides. The international community is watching closely. Chinese President Xi Jinping is expected to visit Moscow soon. His visit could influence upcoming diplomatic efforts.
As of now, Ukraine has not responded to the new proposal. The possibility of direct dialogue in Istanbul depends on Kyiv’s willingness to engage—without foreign pressure.
