Putin 'open to peace talks' – but fresh wave of attacks leaves Ukraine sceptical

Russia-Ukraine Conflict: Putin Signals Readiness for Ceasefire Talks Amidst Ongoing Attacks

Amidst the protracted Russia-Ukraine conflict, Russian President Vladimir Putin has declared a willingness to resume direct negotiations with Ukraine, aiming to establish a ceasefire. However, this announcement comes as a wave of Russian missile and drone assaults struck various locations across Ukraine overnight, prompting skepticism regarding Moscow’s dedication to genuinely halting hostilities.

Putin Expresses Openness to Dialogue

Kremlin Reiterates Stance on Negotiations

Speaking on Russian state television on Monday, Putin stated that Russia has “consistently viewed peace initiatives with favor.” He expressed hope that “representatives of the Kyiv regime will reciprocate this sentiment.” Dmitry Peskov, the Kremlin press secretary, elaborated that Putin’s remarks indicated an openness to engage in direct discussions with Ukraine specifically concerning the avoidance of strikes on civilian areas.

Peskov informed the Russian state news agency Interfax, “When the president mentioned the possibility of discussing the issue of not targeting civilian infrastructure, including on a bilateral basis, the president was referring to talks and discussions with the Ukrainian side.”

Ukraine’s Response

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky did not directly address Putin’s comments. However, he affirmed Ukraine’s readiness for “any conversation” that would guarantee the protection of civilians. In his nightly video address, Zelensky emphasized Ukraine’s need for a “clear indication from Moscow” regarding their commitment to stop assaults on civilian infrastructure.

Persistent Attacks Cast Doubt on Ceasefire Intentions

Continued Hostilities Across Ukraine

Notwithstanding these pronouncements, Russian forces executed extensive drone and missile assaults throughout Ukraine overnight. In Odesa, at least three individuals sustained injuries, and fires erupted in residential zones following a large-scale drone attack that targeted civilian infrastructure, including an educational institution.

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Easter Ceasefire Violations

In the Kherson region, tragically, three civilians lost their lives during the 30-hour Easter ceasefire declared by Putin. Ukrainian officials reported over 2,900 breaches of this ceasefire by Russia, encompassing artillery bombardments and drone strikes.

Hospital Targeted

Reports indicate that drone strikes persisted throughout the day, including another attack in Kherson targeting a hospital, as reported by Governor Oleksandr Prokudin.

Diplomatic Efforts Underway

International Meetings to Discuss Resolution

In parallel with the ongoing conflict, diplomatic efforts are continuing. Ukraine is scheduled to join representatives from the US, UK, and France in London on Wednesday. This meeting follows discussions held in Paris the previous week, where leaders explored avenues to bring an end to the war.

Ukraine Prioritizes Ceasefire in Talks

Zelensky stated that the “primary objective” of the upcoming talks would be “to advocate for an unconditional ceasefire.”

Differing Perspectives on Peace Prospects

US President Donald Trump, speaking recently, predicted a “very good possibility” of reaching a settlement. However, Kyiv harbors concerns that any peace proposal might entail unacceptable compromises, such as recognizing Crimea as Russian territory and preventing Ukraine’s NATO membership.

Key Demands for Ukraine

Zelensky has previously stated his willingness to meet directly with Putin to resolve the conflict, but he has underscored that any agreement must uphold Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Previous Negotiations

Peace talks were previously conducted in Belarus and subsequently in Turkey in March 2022. However, these discussions broke down without reaching an agreement. Since then, most diplomatic initiatives have been indirect, or mediated through third parties, often in multilateral settings.