Overview

• Ukraine and European leaders, backed by U.S. President Trump, have called for an unconditional 30-day ceasefire starting May 12 to halt hostilities and facilitate peace talks.
• Russian President Vladimir Putin has proposed resuming direct negotiations with Ukraine in Istanbul on May 15, rejecting preconditions for talks.
• Ukrainian President Zelenskyy insists on a verified ceasefire before engaging in negotiations, citing past violations of temporary truces by Russia.
• European leaders have warned of massive, coordinated sanctions targeting Russia's energy and financial sectors if the ceasefire proposal is rejected or violated.
• The U.S. would lead monitoring efforts for the proposed truce, with European support, as both sides brace for continued diplomatic and economic pressure.