Russia’s President Vladimir Putin speaks with journalists during a meeting in Moscow, Russia, April 21, 2025. Sputnik/Vyacheslav Prokofyev/Pool via REUTERS
Putin Proposes Bilateral Talks with Ukraine Amid International Pressure for Peace
First Direct Overture Since Start of Full-Scale War
Russian President Vladimir Putin stated on Monday that Moscow is open to bilateral negotiations with Ukraine, marking the first such proposal in years. His remarks come as pressure mounts from the United States and Western allies for concrete steps toward ending the ongoing conflict, which has now entered its fourth year.
Speaking to Russian state television, Putin also indicated that he would consider additional ceasefires following a unilateral 30-hour Easter truce declared over the weekend. The brief pause in fighting, however, quickly gave way to renewed hostilities, with both Russia and Ukraine accusing each other of violating the terms.
Ukrainian Delegation to Meet Allies in London
In a parallel development, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy confirmed that a delegation from Kyiv will travel to London on Wednesday for talks with officials from the United States, United Kingdom, and other Western countries. The discussions will build upon a previous meeting held in Paris, where options for achieving a sustainable peace were explored.
“Ukraine, the United Kingdom, France, and the United States — we are ready to move forward as constructively as possible… to achieve an unconditional ceasefire, followed by the establishment of a real and lasting peace,” Zelenskiy posted on X, formerly Twitter, following discussions with British Prime Minister Keir Starmer.
Putin Signals Openness to Civilian Ceasefire Terms
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov elaborated on Putin’s comments, telling reporters that the Russian president was referring to the possibility of bilateral talks specifically aimed at ceasing strikes on civilian targets.
“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 said, as reported by Interfax.
Zelenskiy, however, did not respond directly to Putin’s remarks regarding bilateral negotiations.
Ceasefire Marred by Violations on Both Sides
Despite the temporary Easter truce, Ukraine reported nearly 3,000 violations by Russian forces, including heavy attacks along the Pokrovsk section of the front. Russia’s defence ministry, in turn, stated that Ukrainian troops had attacked Russian positions 444 times and launched over 900 drone strikes. The ministry also reported casualties among civilians.
There were no nationwide air raid alerts in Ukraine during the truce period, but localized fighting and strikes persisted. Reuters noted that battlefield claims from both sides could not be independently verified.
Ukraine Maintains Symmetrical Response Strategy
President Zelenskiy reiterated Kyiv’s stance that its military actions will remain “symmetrical” to those of Russia. “Ceasefire will be met with ceasefire, and Russian strikes will be met with our own in defence,” he posted on X. “Actions always speak louder than words.”
Zelenskiy had previously called for a 30-day ceasefire focused on protecting civilian targets, criticizing Russia’s continued attacks during the Easter truce as undermining peace efforts.
United States Warns of Potential Withdrawal from Talks
On Friday, U.S. President Donald Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio cautioned that Washington could abandon its support for peace negotiations if tangible progress is not achieved soon. However, in remarks on Sunday, Trump struck a more optimistic tone, suggesting that a deal could be reached “this week.”
Russia has so far maintained its conditions for a settlement, including Ukraine’s recognition of territories claimed by Moscow and a commitment to permanent neutrality. Ukraine has rejected these terms, saying they would amount to capitulation and leave the country vulnerable to future aggression.
Kremlin Responds to U.S. Comments
Asked about the potential for a near-term peace deal as hinted by Trump, Peskov declined to provide a timeline but reiterated Moscow’s willingness to engage.
“President Putin and the Russian side remain open to seeking a peaceful settlement. We are continuing to work with the American side and, of course, we hope that this work will yield results,” he said.
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