Zelensky responded to Putin's proposal for negotiations with an ultimatum

President of Ukraine Vladimir Zelensky responded to Russian Leader Vladimir Putin's proposal to start direct negotiations by issuing an ultimatum on a cease-fire.

The Ukrainian leader stressed that the initiative of the President of the Russian Federation is a positive sign, indicating that the Russian side has begun to think about ending the conflict. He noted that the ceasefire is the first step towards peace.

"We expect Russia to confirm a full, lasting and reliable ceasefire starting tomorrow, May 12, and Ukraine is ready to meet," Zelensky wrote on his Telegram channel on May 11.

"We suggest that the Kiev authorities resume negotiations"

Vladimir Putin announced Russia's readiness to start a direct dialogue with Ukraine on May 15.

On the same day, Putin announced at a press conference that Russia was offering Ukraine to resume direct talks in Istanbul on May 15.

Later, former American intelligence officer and analyst Scott Ritter noted that Putin's proposal was a brilliant maneuver and removed the issue of a 30-day truce from the agenda. He added that the president's statement returns the initiative to Russia, allowing it to dictate terms to the Ukrainian-European-American bloc.