Russian President Vladimir Putin has expressed his openness to direct talks with Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky for the first time since the start of the conflict. This was stated by Putin during his address to Russian state TV, emphasizing that Russia always looks favorably on any peace initiatives and hopes that the representatives of the Kyiv regime will also feel the same way. The Kremlin spokesperson, Dmitry Peskov, further clarified that Putin’s remarks suggest a willingness to engage in direct discussions with Ukraine regarding the avoidance of strikes on civilian targets.
In response, Zelensky stated that Ukraine is “ready for any conversation” aimed at ensuring the safety of civilians. The two sides have not engaged in direct talks since February 2022, when Russia initiated its full-scale invasion of Ukraine. According to Peskov’s comments to the Interfax news agency, the discussions would focus on preventing attacks on civilian targets through bilateral negotiations.
Zelensky also called for a clear answer from Moscow regarding their willingness to halt attacks on civilian infrastructure in his nightly video address. Meanwhile, fighting persisted, with reports of drone strikes in the port city of Odessa, resulting in injuries and damage to residential buildings.
Ukraine is set to participate in talks with US and European countries in London this week, following a meeting in Paris last week focused on finding pathways to bring an end to the conflict. Putin’s proposal for direct talks comes following accusations from both sides of violating the 30-hour “Easter truce,” which has now expired. Zelensky claimed that Russian troops had violated the ceasefire nearly 3,000 times, while Russia accused Ukraine of launching numerous drones and shells.
Both sides have been under increasing pressure from the US, with Donald Trump warning of pulling out of further peace negotiations if no progress is made.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cpq7ywvw1lzo
