Ukraine ready to meet Russia but only if ceasefire agreed, says Zelenskyy
Briefly

Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has expressed openness to direct negotiations with Russia, contingent upon Moscow committing to an unconditional ceasefire. This demand was reinforced by key leaders from Britain, France, Germany, and Poland during their recent discussions in Kyiv. Zelenskyy stated that continued violence is unacceptable, and his Chief of Staff further specified a 30-day ceasefire as a prerequisite to any talks in Istanbul. Meanwhile, Russian President Putin's response included a mixture of accusations against Ukraine while also indicating a willingness to negotiate, leaving the situation uncertain and tense.
Zelenskyy emphasized that the continuation of violence is unacceptable, expressing that Ukraine is open to negotiations if Russia agrees to an unconditional ceasefire.
In response to Putin's call for negotiations, Yermak insisted on a preliminary 30-day ceasefire before any talks, reinforcing Ukraine's stance on peace.
British Prime Minister Starmer highlighted that failure to accept the ceasefire would lead to escalated sanctions and increased military support for Ukraine.
Putin's remarks suggested a willingness to meet, but his accusations against Ukraine indicated a reluctance to fully engage with the peace demands from Europe.
Read at www.theguardian.com
[
|
]