Putin Proposes Talks in Istanbul on May 15
Russian President Vladimir Putin has proposed holding direct Ukraine peace talks in Istanbul on May 15. He praised Turkey’s role as a mediator, calling for urgent diplomatic engagement.
The proposal came just hours after Ukraine and four European leaders urged a 30-day ceasefire to begin on Monday, May 12.
“We propose to start negotiations without delay on Thursday, May 15, in Istanbul,” Putin said in a late-night Kremlin statement. He added he would speak with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan to request support for hosting the talks.
Putin said Russia seeks dialogue without preconditions. He stressed that the goal is to resolve the conflict’s root causes and ensure lasting peace.
Although he mentioned the possibility of a ceasefire, he did not directly endorse the European plan.
Turkey as a Peace Platform Again
Putin also emphasized Turkey’s earlier role in hosting talks. He plans to call Erdoğan on May 12 to ask for his help in organizing new negotiations.
“Russia is ready to resume negotiations,” he stated. “Those genuinely seeking peace will endorse this initiative.”
Russia and Ukraine had met in Istanbul in March 2022 and reached a draft agreement. However, Ukraine later stepped away from the process.
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Now, Putin says Russia’s peace proposal remains on the table. He implied that the next move lies with Kyiv and its allies.
Mixed Responses from Global Leaders
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov supported the move. He stated that “sustainable peace requires serious negotiations.” He also noted that the U.S. is beginning to support this approach.
French President Emmanuel Macron reacted with caution. He called Putin’s offer “a first step, but not enough.” According to Macron, a ceasefire must come before any negotiations begin. He warned that Putin might be trying to buy time.
Optimism and Caution Worldwide
U.S. President Donald Trump welcomed the proposal on social media. He called it “a potentially great day for Russia and Ukraine.” He also expressed hope that the war’s “never-ending bloodbath” might come to an end.
“I will continue working with both sides,” Trump said. “The USA should focus on rebuilding and trade. A BIG week upcoming!”
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky also responded on Sunday. He said Kyiv is ready for direct talks but expects Russia to agree to a ceasefire beginning May 12.
“There is no point in more killing,” Zelensky stated. “This is a long-awaited step. And the first step in ending any war is a ceasefire.”
For now, the world awaits Moscow’s response to the international ceasefire appeal.
