Russia initiated a substantial aerial assault on Ukraine, deploying over 100 Shahed and decoy drones during nighttime operations, according to the Ukrainian air force. This came after Russia dismissed the notion of a 30-day unconditional ceasefire amidst an ongoing conflict that has spanned more than three years. Nevertheless, Russia indicated its willingness to engage in peace discussions later in the week, with no prerequisites.
The Kremlin has not directly responded to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s invitation for a face-to-face meeting with Russian leader Vladimir Putin, proposed to take place in Turkey on Thursday. While Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov declined to reveal who would represent Russia at the Istanbul meeting, he expressed a commitment to seeking a long-term peaceful solution.
The pursuit of peace is backed by the United States and European governments, which are intensifying efforts to halt a war that has resulted in significant casualties on both sides, including the deaths of over 10,000 Ukrainian civilians. Russian forces have claimed control of roughly 20% of Ukraine, marking Europe’s most significant conflict since World War II.
U.S. President Donald Trump expressed optimism about the upcoming talks in Istanbul, stating that there could be potential for a positive outcome from a meeting between Putin and Zelenskyy. He also mentioned the possibility of attending the talks between his visits to Qatar and the United Arab Emirates. In response, Zelenskyy welcomed the idea of Trump’s participation, emphasizing his willingness to engage directly with Putin.
Over the weekend, a series of diplomatic exchanges led to Russia rejecting a ceasefire proposal advocated by the United States and European leaders. Instead, Russia proposed direct negotiations with Ukraine in Istanbul on Thursday. Ukraine and its European allies insisted on a ceasefire before engaging in peace talks, but Russia declined this approach.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, involved in peace-building efforts, stated that he communicated separately with Zelenskyy, Putin, and Trump about the situation. He suggested that a new opportunity for peace had emerged, pointing to previous negotiations hosted by Turkey in 2022 that nearly reached success but were hindered by external influences. Erdogan emphasized his support for Trump’s diplomatic approach to resolving conflicts.
Pressure from the West on Putin has increased, with Trump urging Ukraine to accept Russia’s offer of talks. Zelenskyy further pressed Putin by proposing a direct meeting. On Monday, France joined the call, with Foreign Minister Jean-Noël Barrot encouraging Putin to accept the negotiation proposal, albeit with a precondition for a truce. European leaders warned that failing to agree to a ceasefire would result in more sanctions against Russia. Germany emphasized this stance on Monday.
Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson, following a meeting with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, reiterated the urgency for peace across Europe, the US, and Ukraine. He challenged Russia to commit to an unconditional ceasefire. However, Kremlin spokesman Peskov dismissed the idea of ultimatums, warning that Russia couldn’t be approached in this manner.
The UK, led by Foreign Secretary David Lammy, hosted senior diplomats from major European countries, the European Union, and the US in London to strategize against Russian aggression. Meanwhile, Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan anticipated potential compromises that could pave the way for talks, even in the absence of an initial truce. Both Russian and Ukrainian officials are aware of the public sentiment in their countries and are working to secure US support for their respective positions, which has led to delays in negotiations.
In Kyiv, the general public responded mixedly to the peace initiatives, with some remaining hopeful while others remained skeptical about Putin’s intentions. Local residents voiced concerns that a ceasefire might signify a perceived loss for Russia, leading to prolonged stalling of talks. Despite the challenges, the mood remains cautiously optimistic about the possibility of a peaceful resolution eventually emerging.
Zelenskyy continues to push for a peace deal, building on momentum initiated by the Trump administration, and reiterated Ukraine’s desire for an end to the conflict. He emphasized on social media the need for reciprocal actions from Russia. Following a discussion with Pope Leo XIV, Zelenskyy highlighted the potential for Vatican support in aiding the return of Ukrainian children allegedly deported by Russia. Additionally, he extended an invitation to the pontiff to visit Ukraine.
In his first public blessing, Pope Leo XIV advocated for a just peace in Ukraine, expressing solidarity with the Ukrainian people. Reflecting on past efforts, Zelenskyy’s previous attempts for a direct dialogue with Putin were met with resistance, leading to a legislative decree barring negotiations unless conditions changed. Both leaders have not met since their initial interaction in 2019, with entrenched animosity complicating progress towards peace.