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Zelenskyy Calls Putin’s Proposal “Positive Sign,” Urges Ceasefire Before Talks
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![Ivan_khomenko]( "Photo of Ivan Khomenko")
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-21d0b63c17f6020e4df75f6c6f9a2f4f.jpg "Photo of Ivan Khomenko")
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has called Russia’s proposal for direct peace talks a “good sign,” but stressed that negotiations can only proceed if Moscow confirms a full and lasting ceasefire starting May 12.
In a message posted on social media, Zelenskyy said, “It is a positive sign that the Russians have finally begun to consider ending the war. The entire world has been waiting for this for a very long time. And the very first step in truly ending any war is a ceasefire.”
His statement follows reports that Russian leader Vladimir Putin has proposed resuming direct negotiations in Istanbul.
While Zelenskyy acknowledged the proposal positively, he emphasized the necessity of halting hostilities before any discussions can take place. “There is no point in continuing the killing even for a single day,” he wrote.
“We expect Russia to confirm a ceasefire – full, lasting, and reliable – starting tomorrow, May 12th, and Ukraine is ready to meet,” the President added.
The Ukrainian government has not yet commented on the location or format of potential talks, pending Moscow’s official commitment to cease hostilities.
Earlier, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and key European leaders held calls with US President Donald Trump on May 10, urging an unconditional 30-day ceasefire starting May 12. According to Ukraine’s Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha, Trump expressed support for the proposal, warning of severe sanctions if Russia fails to comply.
