On May 11, 2025, Russian President Vladimir Putin proposed resuming direct peace talks with Ukraine in Istanbul on May 15, stating they would occur "without preconditions." This offer follows increased international pressure, including a unified call from European leaders and the U.S. for a 30-day ceasefire, backed by threats of heightened sanctions.

Putin referenced the unsuccessful 2022 peace talks in Istanbul and expressed a commitment to serious negotiations. However, he did not agree to the proposed ceasefire, suggesting that such an agreement could be considered during the course of direct talks.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy welcomed the proposal for talks as a positive sign but emphasized the necessity of an unconditional 30-day ceasefire as a prerequisite. He stressed that ending violence immediately is crucial and expressed readiness to meet once Russia confirms the ceasefire.   

Western leaders, including U.S. President Donald Trump, President Emmanuel Macron of France, and U.K. Labour leader Sir Keir Starmer, have all pushed for a ceasefire and pledged increased sanctions and military aid to Ukraine if Russia continues resisting peace efforts. A significant joint visit to Kyiv by leaders of France, Germany, and Poland demonstrated solidarity with Ukraine, coinciding with Putin’s Victory Day celebrations with allied non-Western nations.

Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov appeared open to dialogue but stated that any ceasefire must halt Western military aid to Ukraine. Tensions remain high as Russia demands strategic concessions, and Ukraine, backed by Western allies, insists on an immediate and unconditional ceasefire.