MOSCOW — Russian President Vladimir Putin has proposed direct peace talks with Ukraine in Istanbul on May 15, aiming for a lasting resolution to the three-year conflict. The move, which comes amid ongoing hostilities and Western pressure, was welcomed by U.S. President Donald Trump as a potential breakthrough.

Putin offered negotiations without preconditions, urging Kyiv to engage and accusing Western powers of pursuing political agendas over peace. Despite the call for talks, Russia launched drone attacks on Kyiv the same day, injuring one and damaging homes.

Putin insists any agreement must address the war’s root causes and allow for future ceasefires. While European leaders demand an unconditional truce, Putin dismissed their demands as ultimatums and reiterated his past peace efforts, including failed temporary ceasefires.

He also referenced a 2022 draft agreement that proposed Ukrainian neutrality in exchange for global security guarantees, blaming Kyiv for abandoning the talks. Russia continues to demand Ukraine renounce NATO ambitions and accept Moscow's territorial claims.

Trump, advocating for an end to the “bloodbath,” said he would work with both sides to bring peace, while European and Ukrainian leaders remain skeptical of Moscow’s intentions.