Putin proposes a ceasefire on Victory Day as a gesture toward direct talks with Kyiv
Russia proposes a ceasefire for Victory Day as a possible start to direct negotiations with Ukraine, while intensifying offensives in the east of the country.
In an unexpected twist, Russian President Vladimir Putin has proposed a ceasefire on the occasion of Victory Day, May 9, one of the most symbolic dates for Russia. According to Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov, this initiative seeks to be the starting point for direct talks between Moscow and Kyiv, which have been stalled for months.
"The proposal for a ceasefire is not just a symbolic gesture, but an open door to a serious diplomatic process," Lavrov told state media, adding that "the ball is now in Kyiv's court."
However, the offer comes in a contradictory context: Russian forces have intensified their offensive operations in recent days in at least three eastern Ukrainian provinces, including Donetsk, Kharkiv, and Luhansk. Ukrainian officials describe the proposal as a maneuver to gain tactical advantage before a new phase of fighting.
In Kyiv, Volodymyr Zelensky's government has not yet officially responded, but sources close to the cabinet affirm that any ceasefire proposal must be accompanied by an immediate withdrawal of Russian troops from occupied territories.
The international community, especially the UN and mediating countries such as Türkiye and China, are closely monitoring diplomatic developments, while calls for a lasting cessation of hostilities are growing.
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