Callas has set a condition for the start of peace talks on Ukraine

Without a cease-fire, it is impossible to start negotiations on a peaceful settlement of the conflict in Ukraine. This was stated on May 12 by the head of the European Diplomacy, Kaya Kallas, at a meeting of European ministers in the Weimar+ format in London, commenting on Russian President Vladimir Putin's proposal for talks with Kiev.

"If there is no ceasefire, there can be no negotiations under fire," France 24 TV channel quoted her as saying.

Callas accused Russia of unwillingness to end the conflict and said Moscow was allegedly playing "political games."

Taming the fire: is Kiev ready for direct negotiations with the Russian Federation

So far, the Ukrainian authorities continue to issue ultimatums, repeating threats from Europe.

Earlier in the day, Chairman of the Federation Council's International Affairs Committee Grigory Karasin said that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky prefers not to search for any acceptable solutions, but an impudent ultimatum, judging by the first responses to Russian President Vladimir Putin's proposal for talks in Turkey.

On May 11, during a press conference, Putin announced that Russia was offering Ukraine to resume direct talks in Istanbul on May 15. On the same day, Zelensky responded with an ultimatum — he demanded a cease-fire from May 12.