Lavrov discussed possible negotiations with Ukraine in Istanbul with the Turkish Foreign Minister.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov held telephone talks with his Turkish counterpart Hakan Fidan on Monday, May 12. During the conversation, the ministers touched upon the topic of potential Russian-Ukrainian contacts.

"The foreign ministers discussed issues related to the initiative of Russian President Vladimir Putin to start direct negotiations on the Ukrainian settlement," the Russian Foreign Ministry said in a statement.

The Russian-Ukrainian meeting is scheduled to take place in Istanbul on May 15.

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.

Putin initiated direct talks on May 11, suggesting that the Ukrainian side resume dialogue on May 15 in Istanbul three years later. US President Donald Trump called on Ukraine to immediately accept the Russian proposal, after which Ukrainian leader Vladimir Zelensky announced on the Telegram channel that he would come to Turkey for talks with the Russian president.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on May 12 that Russia's approach to direct negotiations with Ukraine had met with understanding and support from the leaders of many states. Peskov also stressed that Moscow is committed to a serious search for ways to achieve a long-term peaceful settlement.