Amidst the Russia-Ukraine War, a glimmer of hope emerges. President Vladimir Putin has proposed to Ukraine the resumption of unconditional peace talks in Istanbul on May 15th. These talks had stalled in 2022.
Russia-Ukraine War: The war between Russia and Ukraine, ongoing for over two years, appears to be reaching a critical juncture. Russian President Vladimir Putin proposed unconditional direct talks with Ukraine in Istanbul on May 15th. This initiative has ignited new hope within the international community that peace might be restored between the two nations.
Putin Extends Invitation for Talks
During a conversation with journalists at the Kremlin on Saturday, Vladimir Putin stated that Russia remains prepared for peace talks. He clarified that the talks initiated in 2022 were not broken off by Russia, but by the Kyiv government. Despite this, Russia now seeks to resume negotiations without preconditions.
Putin stated, "We propose that the Kyiv government be ready for direct negotiations in Istanbul on May 15th. We have offered a ceasefire multiple times, but Ukraine has not responded. We are still prepared for peace."
Joint Draft Treaty Formed in 2022
The Russian President also revealed that during the 2022 talks, both sides drafted a joint treaty. Ukraine's chief negotiator had even signed it, but it was not pursued further due to pressure from Western countries.
Putin sarcastically remarked, "The treaty that was prepared at that time had already been approved by the Ukrainian side. But due to some international pressures, it was thrown in the trash."
Russia Shows Leniency Despite Drone Attacks and Border Tensions
Russia also alleges that during the recently declared ceasefire, Ukraine attempted to attack Russian borders five times. According to Putin, "Despite this, we do not want war. Our priority is peace, and we are prepared for direct talks to achieve it."
Will the Istanbul Talks Yield a Solution?
Putin's proposal has focused global attention on the potential meeting in Istanbul on May 15th. If Ukraine accepts this proposal and talks commence, it could bring relief to Europe and the world. No official response has yet been received from Ukraine.
