Russian-Ukrainian negotiations may resume this week, but should a ceasefire come first, or should talks begin?
On May 12, 2025, Russian President Vladimir Putin proposed the unconditional resumption of negotiations between Russia and Ukraine during a media statement made early on May 11. He indicated that there might be an opportunity to reach an agreement on new ceasefire proposals during the discussions. In response, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed his hope for a comprehensive and lasting ceasefire starting on May 12, stating he would be “waiting” for Putin in Turkey on May 15.
Zelensky: Willing to Negotiate, but Prefers a Ceasefire First
On the evening of May 11, Zelensky took to social media to convey that he anticipates a full and lasting ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine beginning on May 12, and he is prepared to meet with Putin in Turkey for discussions.
Putin, in his statement, suggested that both parties should engage in direct negotiations in Istanbul on May 15 without any preconditions. He described Russia’s willingness to restart the negotiations that had stalled in 2022, emphasizing that the decision now rests with Ukraine. Russia is prepared for serious negotiations aimed at addressing the root causes of the conflict and establishing a lasting peace focused on both the past and future. Putin noted that Russia has consistently proposed ceasefire options and has never refused dialogue with Ukraine.
During the press meeting on May 11 at the Kremlin, Putin mentioned that there might be consensus on new ceasefire proposals during the negotiations.
Putin’s Spokesperson Comments on Negotiation Intent
On the same day, Dmitry Peskov, the spokesperson for the Russian president, stated on Russian television that Putin’s proposal for direct negotiations with Ukraine demonstrates Russia’s desire for a peaceful resolution. Peskov emphasized that only serious negotiations can lead to lasting peace.
In light of Zelensky’s remarks about prioritizing a ceasefire before negotiations, Maria Zakharova, spokesperson for the Russian Foreign Ministry, commented that Putin advocates for initial discussions regarding the fundamental causes of the conflict before addressing the ceasefire. Vladimir Miroshnik, a non-resident ambassador for Russia, remarked that Zelensky’s call for a ceasefire seems to be aimed at allowing the Ukrainian military time to rearm and regroup, which contradicts earlier statements of Ukraine’s willingness to begin unconditional negotiations.
Turkey’s Role in Hosting Peace Talks
On May 11, the Turkish presidency released a statement indicating that President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan had spoken with Putin and expressed Turkey’s willingness to host peace negotiations between Russia and Ukraine. Erdoğan welcomed Putin’s proposal to restart talks in Istanbul and emphasized that the window for peace has opened, where a comprehensive ceasefire would create the necessary conditions for dialogue.
Additionally, a report from the Russian president’s website stated that Putin and Erdoğan had a detailed discussion about the proposed direct negotiations set to take place in Istanbul on May 15, with Erdoğan expressing full support for this initiative and offering Istanbul as the negotiation venue.
Moreover, the Turkish presidency issued another statement stating that Erdoğan also communicated with French President Emmanuel Macron, reiterating Turkey’s willingness to facilitate the peace talks.
During a visit to Poland, Macron commented that Putin’s call to restore direct negotiations between Russia and Ukraine is “only the first step, but not enough.” He stated that Ukraine and its European allies are demanding an “unconditional ceasefire,” insisting that a ceasefire should precede any negotiations.
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