Russia signals rare openness to bilateral discussions, but uncertainty remains
In a rare shift in rhetoric, Russian President Vladimir Putin has hinted at a possible resumption of direct peace talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, marking the first such suggestion since the outbreak of the full-scale war in early 2022.
During an interview with Russian state television on Monday, Putin claimed Russia had “always looked positively on any peace initiatives,” adding: “We hope that representatives of the Kyiv regime will feel the same way.”
Kremlin Signals Openness But With Conditions
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov later clarified the president’s remarks, stating they specifically referred to discussions aimed at avoiding attacks on civilian infrastructure.
“When the president said that it was possible to discuss the issue of not striking civilian targets, including bilaterally, the president had in mind negotiations and discussions with the Ukrainian side,” Peskov told Interfax news agency.
The comments represent a notable, if cautious, softening in tone from Moscow. Still, many observers remain sceptical about whether this could lead to meaningful progress.
Kyiv Responds with Caution
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stopped short of directly addressing Putin’s comments. However, in his nightly video message, he made Ukraine’s stance clear.
“We are ready for any conversation that would ensure the safety of civilians,” Zelensky said, before urging Moscow to provide a “clear answer” on whether it would halt strikes against civilian targets.
There has been no official diplomatic engagement between Russia and Ukraine since February 2022, when initial peace efforts collapsed following the invasion.
Violence Persists Despite Truce
Despite talk of peace, fighting continues unabated on the ground. In the southern port city of Odessa, drone strikes overnight left three people injured. Local authorities reported fires and structural damage to residential buildings following the latest wave of airstrikes.
This escalation comes shortly after the expiry of a 30-hour “Easter truce” declared by Russia over the weekend. Both sides have accused the other of violating the ceasefire—allegations that remain unverified.
Zelensky claimed that Russian forces breached the truce almost 3,000 times, while Moscow accused Ukraine of launching a barrage of drones and shells throughout the brief pause in hostilities.
International Pressure Mounts
Putin’s suggestion of renewed talks also arrives against the backdrop of mounting international pressure.
Ukraine is set to engage in discussions with the US and European allies in London this week. This follows a summit in Paris where diplomatic figures explored potential paths to ending the war.
Meanwhile, political tensions are rising in Washington. Former US President Donald Trump has warned he may “take a pass” on future peace efforts if no tangible progress is made soon—a stance that could shift the dynamics of international support.
Conclusion
While Putin’s comments may hint at a diplomatic thaw, genuine peace remains distant. Kyiv continues to demand assurances over civilian safety, and the battlefield remains active. With new rounds of international talks on the horizon, all eyes are now on whether Moscow’s words will be followed by meaningful action.
