The head of the Ukrainian state responded to the Russian president's initiative to hold negotiations in Istanbul on May 15 without any preconditions. The corresponding statement appeared on his Telegram channel.
Volodymyr Zelenskyy emphasized that for the start of dialogue between Ukraine and Russia, Moscow must completely cease military actions starting May 12.
"The fact that the Russian side has finally spoken about ending the war is a positive signal. The international community has long awaited this. The first and most important condition for a real end to any conflict is the cessation of hostilities.
Not even a single day of continued bloodshed can be allowed. We expect official confirmation from Russia of a complete, stable, and long-term ceasefire starting tomorrow, May 12. In this case, Ukraine is ready for a meeting," the president stated.