Sun May 11 02:16:45 UTC 2025: ## Putin Proposes Unconditional Talks with Ukraine, Allies Demand Ceasefire

**Kyiv, Ukraine – May 11, 2025** – Amidst escalating tensions, Russian President Vladimir Putin has proposed restarting direct talks with Ukraine in Istanbul on May 15, without preconditions. This offer follows a joint ultimatum from France, the United Kingdom, Germany, and Poland, backed by U.S. President Donald Trump, demanding an unconditional 30-day ceasefire or facing intensified sanctions.

The European leaders, who met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Kyiv, issued a strong statement calling for a ceasefire beginning Monday, May 12. They emphasized that an unconditional ceasefire cannot be subject to conditions, and any Russian attempt to impose them would be viewed as a war-prolonging tactic. The U.S. is expected to lead the monitoring of any ceasefire, with support from European nations. Severe sanctions targeting Russia’s energy and banking sectors are threatened if the ceasefire is violated.

Putin, referencing previous unsuccessful talks in Istanbul in March 2022, claimed Russia has repeatedly offered ceasefires, all of which were violated by Ukraine. He asserted the need for a truce leading to lasting peace, not one that allows Ukraine to rearm. He plans to involve Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in facilitating the proposed May 15 talks.

Meanwhile, reports of continued shelling in Ukraine, including deadly strikes in Sumy and Kherson, and a U.S. Embassy warning of a potential major Russian air attack, underscore the ongoing conflict. While Trump has previously expressed optimism about a deal and urged high-level talks, he recently voiced doubts about Putin’s willingness to end the war.

The European allies remain steadfast in their support for Ukraine, emphasizing the continent’s security is at stake and vowing to continue supplying Kyiv with military aid. Discussions on long-term security guarantees for Ukraine, including potential foreign troop deployments, are also underway, though NATO membership remains Kyiv’s preferred option. The situation remains highly volatile, with the outcome of the proposed talks highly uncertain.

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