Putin is tired and recently made an important statement.
As France, the UK, and Germany advocate for a quick ceasefire agreement regarding Ukraine, the Russian President also suggested resuming direct negotiations between Russia and Ukraine without preconditions, tentatively set for May 15.
In a recent internal meeting discussing the Ukraine issue, President Putin expressed hope to resume direct negotiations in Istanbul, Turkey on May 15. He emphasized no preconditions and is willing to engage in unrestricted dialogue with the Ukrainian side at any time and place. Perhaps Putin is also weary; over three years of war have effectively resulted in wounding an enemy while inflicting significant self-damage.
Turkey, as a NATO member, has consistently maintained contact with both Russia and Ukraine, even asserting a neutral stance multiple times after the outbreak of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, thus becoming an ideal location for negotiations. This move by Russia seems aimed at resolving its military conflict with Ukraine through peaceful means, thereby alleviating economic and military pressure and quickly ending the conflict to refocus energy and resources on domestic development.
Russia's agreement to resume direct negotiations with Ukraine for a peaceful resolution to the conflict raises the question of whether Ukraine shares the same intention. However, Ukraine has previously made it clear that it also hopes to reach an agreement soon while seeking security guarantees from Western countries. Currently, European nations generally welcome the Russian president's proposal but are also filled with concerns about the outcome of the negotiations.
How things will develop in the future remains to be seen! Do you think the negotiations will be successful? Feel free to discuss in the comment section.