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Russian President Vladimir Putin has officially proposed Ukraine Russia peace talks to take place in Istanbul on May 15. The announcement, made during a May 11 Kremlin address, emphasized negotiations “without preconditions” to discuss the war’s “root causes” and seek a “lasting peace.”
However, Moscow has rejected Ukraine’s call for a truce beforehand — saying a ceasefire should come as a result of the talks, not a condition.
Takeaway: Putin wants to skip preconditions and move directly to the table — even as missiles still fly.
Zelenskyy’s Stance: Ceasefire First
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy welcomed the idea of Ukraine Russia peace talks as a “positive sign,” but remained firm: no talks unless there’s a full, unconditional ceasefire. Kyiv and its allies demand a 30-day truce beginning May 12.
Zelenskyy says he’s ready to attend in person — but warned that Russia’s ongoing attacks could undercut any serious negotiation.
Takeaway: For Ukraine, peace starts with silence — not promises.
International Pressure Mounts
France, Germany, the UK, and Poland all support Ukraine’s position. They’ve warned of new, sweeping sanctions on Russia if it doesn’t pause hostilities. Ukraine Russia peace talks, they argue, must begin with a ceasefire to be legitimate.
U.S. President Donald Trump encouraged Zelenskyy to attend the talks regardless, suggesting the meeting could expose whether Putin is serious about ending the war.
Takeaway: The West is aligned — mostly — but tensions remain over how to approach Putin’s offer.
Turkey Steps Up as Host
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan has confirmed readiness to host the meeting. Turkey previously helped broker talks in 2022, which included a draft deal proposing Ukrainian neutrality.
But as Erdoğan prepares the logistics, Russia launched new drone strikes on Ukraine on May 11 — casting doubt on its commitment to peace.
Takeaway: Turkey’s neutrality could help — but real peace hinges on more than hotel reservations.
Sticking Points Remain
Russia wants the talks to consider the battlefield status quo and revisit the 2022 Istanbul draft, which included neutrality and recognition of Russian gains. Putin has called Ukraine’s ceasefire demand an “ultimatum.”
Despite increasing pressure, the Kremlin insists that Ukraine Russia peace talks should proceed without any prior commitments — especially not territorial ones.
Takeaway: Both sides say they want peace — but they’re miles apart on what that peace looks like.
Public Sentiment Shifts, Uncertainty Grows
Ukrainian public support for negotiations is rising, with 44% backing talks in 2024, up from 20% in 2022. Still, most oppose making territorial concessions.
Unless a breakthrough happens fast, the May 15 summit may not materialize — or may collapse before progress is made.
Takeaway: A peace window has cracked open — but it’s fragile and fading fast.
