Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy responded Sunday to Russia’s proposal for direct peace talks by welcoming the idea—but only under the condition of an immediate and temporary ceasefire. Zelenskyy reiterated his call for a 30-day unconditional halt to hostilities, emphasizing that a ceasefire is the “very first step” to ending the war.
Writing on X, Zelenskyy acknowledged Russian President Vladimir Putin’s counteroffer of talks without preconditions as a “positive sign,” adding, “The entire world has been waiting for this for a very long time.” However, he insisted that negotiations cannot proceed unless Russia agrees to stop its military operations by Monday, May 12.
“There is no point in continuing the killing even for a single day,” Zelenskyy stated. “We expect Russia to confirm a ceasefire—full, lasting, and reliable—starting tomorrow, and Ukraine is ready to meet.”
Putin, in a late-night media appearance, rejected the demand for a pre-negotiation ceasefire and instead proposed restarting direct talks in Istanbul on Thursday. He suggested that a ceasefire could be discussed and potentially agreed upon during the negotiations themselves.
As talks about talks unfolded, Russia resumed its military offensive early Sunday, launching 108 drones and simulator drones from six different directions. Ukraine’s Air Force reported shooting down 60 drones, while 41 simulator drones were thwarted by countermeasures.
Putin’s refusal to agree to a preconditioned ceasefire came despite strong pressure from four major European leaders, who urged Moscow on Saturday to accept a 30-day halt to fighting or face increased diplomatic consequences.
U.S. President Donald Trump, in a post on social media, called the development “a potentially great day for Russia and Ukraine!” and pledged to help facilitate peace. “The USA wants to focus, instead, on Rebuilding and Trade. A BIG week upcoming!” he added.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov called Putin’s offer “very serious” and said it aims to “eliminate the root causes of the conflict” while defending Russian interests. Moscow maintains its terms for peace will require concessions from Kyiv and guarantees for Russia’s security.
