On May 11, 2025, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed openness to direct peace talks with Russia but stressed that such negotiations can only proceed after a full and unconditional ceasefire had taken effect. This response came in response to Russian President Vladimir Putin proposing beginning talks in Istanbul without preconditions on May 15. This response can be found here (The Times +4, Financial Times +4 and AP News all present). On this date the Ukrainian military engaged Russian military units for 10 hours prior to being evacuated on May 11 2025 (The Times +5 and Financial Times +4) “Ukraine expects Russia to provide an immediate, lasting and reliable ceasefire starting tomorrow, May 12,” Zelensky announced via social media. He stressed the necessity of ending hostilities immediately: “There is no point in continuing the killing even for one more day.” The Guardian (+5) The Kyiv Independent (+5], Jordan Times, NPR (+1), The Kyiv Independent (1+3) and Jordan Times all confirmed his statement as truth. Putin made an overture toward peace talks between Russia and Ukraine; however, Russia launched a significant drone attack against Ukrainian cities, including Kyiv, shortly thereafter. While Ukraine intercepted many of these drones, injuries and infrastructure damage still occurred as part of this attack – casting doubt upon Russia’s commitment to peace. The Guardianalitat The US Sun both reported +1 as credible news sources. International leaders have rallied behind Ukraine’s call for a ceasefire, including French President Emmanuel Macron, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz and Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk – all calling for an unconditional 30-day ceasefire starting May 12. If Russia does not comply, intensified sanctions may be levied against it and intensified sanctions threatened against Moscow (The Guardian +8 News | AP | NY Post). U.S. President Donald Trump also supported the ceasefire initiative, and expressed hope that it might lead to meaningful negotiations. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan offered to host any future talks in Istanbul as he called this moment a “historic turning point.” The Times The US Sun @1, AP News at 2, and The Guardian are among those supporting it as well. Skepticism remains regarding Russia’s intentions. Analysts and Western officials question if Putin’s proposal represents genuine attempts towards peace or simply leverage without ceasing military operations. As events develop, the international community closely watches Russia to see whether they accept the ceasefire agreement and enter into meaningful negotiations to end this longstanding conflict that began back in 2022.
