**Russia Invites Ukraine to Direct Talks as Victory Day Truce Ends**
Russian President Vladimir Putin has invited Ukraine to engage in direct talks starting May 15 in Istanbul, a move that comes after a three-day truce marking Russia’s Victory Day celebrations ended on Wednesday. The invitation was made during a press conference in Moscow.
Putin stated that Russia is “ready for negotiations without any preconditions.” This marks the first time since Moscow launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 that there have been no direct talks between the two countries.
However, Putin did not agree to an extension of the three-day truce or the proposal by Ukraine and Europe for a 30-day unconditional ceasefire. The proposal, which is backed by U.S. President Donald Trump, could be negotiated during the Istanbul talks.
**Ukraine’s Conditions for Negotiations**
Ukraine has stated that it is ready for negotiations but insists any peace process must preserve its territorial integrity and sovereignty. Ukrainian officials have also emphasized that territorial issues can only be addressed after a full ceasefire is reached.
Kyiv accepted an unconditional 30-day U.S.-backed ceasefire proposal in March, but Moscow rejected it, demanding a complete end to Western military support for Ukraine.
**Russia’s Maximalist Demands**
Russia has repeatedly proclaimed its readiness for peace talks while pushing for maximalist demands. Kyiv has dismissed these declarations as propaganda stunts, noting that Russian forces have intensified their attacks on Ukrainian cities and towns.
As Western leaders press for an extended ceasefire, Russia has sent signals indicating a potential escalation of attacks. The Ukrainian defense news outlet Militarnyi reported that Russia is closing its airspace over the Kapustin Yar military training and rocket launch complex from May 12 to 13, raising speculation of a possible Oreshnik missile launch.
**Western Concerns**
The U.S. embassy in Kyiv has warned of potential mass attacks amid Putin’s Victory Day truce. While these warnings have been part of standard security protocols, they underscore the concerns among Western leaders about Russia’s intentions.
As the situation remains uncertain, it is clear that Ukraine and Russia are far apart on key issues, including territorial integrity and sovereignty. The upcoming direct talks in Istanbul will be crucial in determining whether a ceasefire can be reached and what conditions will be set for future negotiations.
