Putin Accepts Zelensky's Peace Talks Challenge: A Ceasefire Looms

Ukraine-Russia Peace Talks: Zelensky's Challenge, Putin's Response, and International Reactions. On May 12, 2025, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky issued a direct challenge to Russian President Vladimir Putin, inviting him to peace talks in Istanbul on May 15. Putin responded by offering to resume direct negotiations ‘without preconditions.’ This development has spurred significant reactions from international actors. Turkey's President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, in a phone conversation with Putin, underscored the necessity of a comprehensive ceasefire to create a conducive environment for peace talks. Similarly, China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs affirmed its support for all efforts aimed at a political resolution of the Ukrainian crisis, including Ukraine's and the United States' proposal for a 30-day ceasefire. A spokesperson stated, "All efforts should be directed towards achieving peace." The situation remains highly dynamic, with the international community closely monitoring the unfolding events and their potential impact on the ongoing conflict.