Russian President Vladimir Putin announced on Sunday a proposal to resume direct negotiations with Ukraine, without any preconditions.
Putin also stated that he would discuss with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan the possibility of holding these talks in Istanbul, emphasizing the important role that President Erdoğan can play in facilitating dialogue between the two sides.
He mentioned that the negotiations could begin on May 15 in Istanbul, calling for constructive discussions between the parties.
“Our proposal is on the table,” Putin said. “The decision now lies with the Ukrainian authorities and their curators.”
Putin also thanked all the mediators who have helped in trying to reach a peaceful solution to the conflict, including the administration of former U.S. President Donald Trump.
For his part, Putin’s aide Yuri Ushakov reported that a Russian delegation would travel to Istanbul, and its composition will be announced later.
