Ukraine Sets Ceasefire as Condition for Talks with Russia in Istanbul
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has agreed to meet Russian counterpart Vladimir Putin in Istanbul on May 15, marking a potential turning point in the protracted Russo-Ukrainian conflict. The talks—the first direct negotiations in months—come with a non-negotiable precondition: a complete ceasefire must commence by May 12.
Zelensky’s demand carries strategic weight, reflecting Ukraine’s insistence on de-escalation before diplomacy. The conflict’s fourth year has seen entrenched positions, making this conditional openness to dialogue a carefully calculated move. Observers note the symbolic timing of the proposed meeting date, which falls just days after the ceasefire ultimatum.