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Putin Signals Openness to Dialogue with Zelensky Amid Ongoing Conflict
Russian President Vladimir Putin has indicated a potential shift towards diplomacy, suggesting he is amenable to bilateral discussions with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. This marks the first indication of willingness for direct talks since the initial phase of the conflict.
Kremlin Expresses Readiness for Peace Initiatives
In a statement broadcast on Russian state television on Monday, President Putin conveyed Russia’s stance: “Russia has consistently viewed peace initiatives with favor. We express hope that representatives from the Kyiv administration will reciprocate this sentiment.”
Focus on Civilian Safety in Potential Discussions
Dmitry Peskov, the Kremlin spokesperson, elaborated on Putin’s remarks, clarifying that they signal an openness to engage in direct negotiations with Ukraine. The core topic, according to Peskov, would be preventing strikes on civilian targets.
Ukraine’s Stance: Conversation for Civilian Protection
President Zelensky offered a response, albeit indirect, to Putin’s overtures. He stated Ukraine’s preparedness for “any conversation” that prioritizes the security and safety of civilians.
Absence of Direct Engagement Since Early Stages of Hostilities
Direct communication between the two nations has been absent since the initial weeks following Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.
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Clarification on Scope of Potential Talks
Peskov, speaking to Interfax news agency, further clarified the nature of the potential dialogue. “When the President mentioned the possibility of discussing the issue of avoiding strikes on civilian targets, including in a bilateral format, he was referring to negotiations and discussions with the Ukrainian side.”
Zelensky Seeks Clarity on Civilian Infrastructure Attacks
In his nightly address, Zelensky emphasized Ukraine’s need for a “clear response from Moscow” regarding a commitment to halt attacks targeting civilian infrastructure.
Proposal for Cessation of Strikes on Civilian Infrastructure
Referencing a brief and limited truce declared by Putin over Easter, the Ukrainian leader proposed a follow-up measure. This proposition entailed a “cessation of all strikes using long-range drones and missiles on civilian infrastructure for a minimum period of 30 days.”
Kremlin to “Analyse” Ceasefire Proposal
Putin responded that the Kremlin would “analyse” the proposed measure. Speaking to journalists, he stated, “Regarding the proposition to refrain from striking civilian infrastructure facilities… this matter requires examination.”
Rare Acknowledgement of Civilian Target Strike
In a notable admission, Putin acknowledged a civilian building had been targeted in a recent attack. Russian missiles had resulted in the deaths of 35 individuals and injuries to over 100 in the city center of Sumy earlier in the month.
Contextualizing the Sumy Incident
“Everyone is aware of the strike by our Armed Forces on, I believe, a congress center in Sumy Region. Was it a civilian facility? Yes, civilian. However, it was hosting an award ceremony for individuals implicated in crimes in Kursk Region,” Putin explained.
The Sumy city center was active with people observing Palm Sunday at the time of the strike. Subsequently, reports emerged of a medal ceremony taking place in a local congress hall, leading to the dismissal of the region’s deputy leader.
Ukraine Reiterates Call for Civilian Infrastructure Protection
In his Monday evening remarks, Zelensky reaffirmed, “Ukraine stands by its offer, at the very least, to abstain from striking civilian infrastructure. We await a definitive response from Moscow. We are prepared for any discussion on how to ensure this.”
Pathways to Secure Peace
Zelensky outlined a direct approach: “There exists a clear, simple, and reliable method: cease missile and long-range drone attacks. This action alone would automatically guarantee the safety of all civilian infrastructure. A ceasefire, genuine and sustained, must constitute the primary step towards a secure and lasting peace.”
Reports of Overnight Drone Activity in Odessa
Concurrently, reports surfaced of Russian drone incursions targeting the port city of Odessa overnight.
Civilian Casualties and Damage in Odessa Raids
Local authorities reported that three individuals sustained injuries in the aerial assault, which also triggered fires and caused damage to residential structures.
Ukraine to Engage in International Talks in London
Ukraine is scheduled to participate in discussions with representatives from the United States and European nations in London on Wednesday. This follows a preceding meeting in Paris last week where leaders convened to explore avenues for ending the ongoing war.
Unconditional Ceasefire as Top Priority
Zelensky stated that the “primary objective” of the upcoming talks would be “to advocate for an unconditional ceasefire.”
US President Expresses Hope for Swift Resolution
US President Donald Trump commented earlier in the week, expressing optimism that Russia and Ukraine would reach an agreement within the week. This statement comes after Trump had indicated he might “take a pass” on future peace negotiations if tangible progress is not achieved.