In a rare shift in tone, Russian President Vladimir Putin has expressed openness to direct negotiations with Ukraine, amid growing international pressure and a fresh Ukrainian proposal to halt strikes on civilian infrastructure. The remarks, aired on Russian state television on Monday, were cautiously welcomed but met with scepticism given the ongoing intensity of the conflict.
Putin said he held a “positive attitude towards any peace initiatives” and expressed hope that Kyiv would feel similarly. This came after Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy proposed a 30-day ceasefire focused on protecting civilian areas from drone and missile attacks — a proposal Moscow has not formally accepted but appears to be weighing.
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Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov confirmed that Putin’s comments were an overture toward bilateral dialogue, a notable shift since peace talks collapsed shortly after the Russian invasion began in February 2022. However, Putin cast doubt on the ceasefire’s practicality, accusing Ukrainian forces of using civilian sites for military operations.
International actors have intensified their involvement, with negotiators from the US, UK, France, and Ukraine expected to meet in London on Wednesday following last week’s talks in Paris. US President Donald Trump, who has recently increased pressure on both sides to reach a resolution, hinted that a deal could be “within reach” this week.
Despite the diplomatic stirrings, fighting on the ground shows no signs of slowing. Ukraine reported heavy drone attacks overnight, while Russian media claimed key battlefield gains. Analysts warn that while dialogue signals are encouraging, entrenched distrust and continued hostilities remain formidable barriers to peace.
