Putin proposes direct talks with Ukraine in Istanbul on May 15 amid Europe's pressure for ceasefire

Russian President Vladimir Putin has proposed direct talks with Ukraine in Istanbul on May 15, "without preconditions," as part of efforts to revive stalled peace negotiations. Speaking to reporters at the Kremlin early on Sunday, Putin suggested restarting talks first attempted in 2022, which collapsed amid ongoing military escalations. His remarks came after leaders from four major European countries — France, the United Kingdom, Germany, and Poland — jointly called for a 30-day unconditional ceasefire, warning of severe consequences if Moscow refuses to comply.

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