Ceasefire First: Zelenskyy Signals Openness to Peace Talks as Putin Softens Demands
The Krakow Time
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has signalled a willingness to engage in peace negotiations with Russia, but only if hostilities cease first. His firm stance underscores a desire to prioritise the safety and stability of Ukraine’s population before entering into any dialogue with Moscow. Zelenskyy stated he is open to talks “in any format”, provided a ceasefire is officially in place. A Ukrainian delegation is scheduled to attend discussions in London this week to explore the feasibility of a full or partial ceasefire agreement.
On the Russian side, President Vladimir Putin appears to be edging away from the sweeping objectives that have defined Moscow’s position since the outset of the war. According to the Financial Times, Putin may now be prepared to freeze the conflict along the current front lines and withdraw his demands for complete control over the Donetsk, Kherson, Luhansk, and Zaporizhzhia regions. This development is seen by many observers as the first concrete indication of a potential Russian retreat from its earlier maximalist ambitions.
The United States is heavily involved in mediating the emerging peace efforts, though its proposals have generated controversy. Washington has reportedly floated the idea of recognising Russia’s 2014 annexation of Crimea and establishing a freeze along the current lines of conflict. However, President Zelenskyy has repeatedly rejected any such territorial concessions, deeming them incompatible with Ukraine’s constitution and sovereignty.
Several significant obstacles remain that could derail progress. Russia continues to demand that Ukraine maintain a position of neutrality and forego any aspirations to join NATO. Ukraine, meanwhile, insists on the presence of an international force to oversee and enforce any future peace arrangement—a stipulation strongly opposed by the Kremlin.
With negotiations underway in London and US envoy Steve Witkoff heading to Moscow, the coming days may prove crucial. Former President Donald Trump, who remains a key figure in US foreign policy discussions, has cautioned that Washington may step back from its diplomatic efforts if tangible progress is not achieved soon. Notably, a private meeting is also planned between Zelenskyy and Trump during their attendance at Pope Francis’ funeral later this week, potentially adding a new dimension to the evolving peace dialogue.
