Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced his hopes for a ceasefire with Russia, expected to commence on Monday, while simultaneously expressing his willingness to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin in Turkiye for direct peace talks.

Zelenskyy asserted that Ukraine's proposal for a temporary ceasefire remains available, pending a reply from Russia.

Zelenskyy emphasized the necessity of a full ceasefire preceding any negotiations.

He characterized this proposal as a critical first step towards ending the war, stating on social media, "There is no point in continuing the killing even for a single day.

We expect Russia to confirm a ceasefire – full, lasting, and reliable – starting tomorrow."



In contrast, President Putin, in remarks to the media, effectively rejected Zelenskyy's ceasefire proposal, suggesting instead that direct negotiations in Istanbul be initiated on Thursday, stating that a ceasefire could be reached during these discussions.

Former U.S. President Donald Trump commented on the developments on social media, stating that while Putin does not seem interested in a ceasefire agreement, the proposed meeting in Turkiye could lead to negotiations aimed at concluding the ongoing conflict.

Trump urged Ukraine to proceed with the talks, highlighting that clarity about the negotiation outcomes could guide European and U.S. actions.

Analysis from various experts suggests a strategic maneuver by Zelenskyy, with the potential to bolster Ukraine's position, especially if Putin fails to attend the proposed talks.

Zelenskyy's call for international pressures on Russia has recently gained support following discussions with leaders from Ukraine, France, Germany, Poland, and the United Kingdom, who jointly advocated for an unconditional 30-day ceasefire alongside threats of increased sanctions on Russia.

Putin verbally criticized what he termed as European "ultimatums" and anti-Russian sentiment before putting forward his proposal for renewed negotiations, which he has described as significant in the quest for a peaceful resolution to the conflict.

Russian officials have indicated that any negotiations should take into account previous discussions that occurred in 2022, as well as the current situation on the battlefield.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan has expressed his nation’s readiness to mediate between the two parties, stating a pivotal moment may have been reached in efforts to resolve the war.

Turkey's role, owing to its strategic geographic position and relations with both Russia and Ukraine, remains essential in the ongoing dialogue.

In addition, Putin has laid out terms in previous discussions that included demands for Ukraine to abandon its aspirations for NATO membership, the withdrawal of Ukrainian troops from regions claimed by Russia, and a commitment to neutrality in exchange for security guarantees from global powers.

Since the start of the war in February 2022, hostilities have caused considerable casualties and marked significant tensions between Russia and the West, reminiscent of the Cold War-era confrontations.

The initial negotiations that took place in Istanbul faltered without a cessation of hostilities.

Amid the renewed calls for peace, both Moscow and Kyiv continue to accuse each other of violating previous ceasefires, complicating the path towards an effective resolution.

The dynamics of U.S. political influence, especially with Trump’s involvement urging negotiations, add another layer to the complex situation surrounding the conflict.

In conclusion, the international community remains focused on the evolving discourse between Ukraine and Russia, with significant implications for regional security and geopolitical stability.