The Kremlin has firmly rejected Western demands for a 30-day ceasefire in Ukraine, labeling them as “unacceptable ultimatums.”
Dmitry Peskov, the Kremlin spokesperson, emphasized during a press briefing that such rhetoric would not influence Russia's position, asserting that ultimatums are ineffective in 'negotiations ' with Moscow.
Despite this strong dismissal, Peskov reiterated Russia's willingness to engage in peace talks, highlighting President Vladimir Putin's openness to resume discussions in Istanbul without preconditions—discussions he claimed Ukraine abandoned in 2022.
Meanwhile, Germany has warned that Russia must agree to an "unconditional ceasefire " by the end of the day or face new sanctions from the European Union, as European foreign ministers gather in London to address the ongoing conflict.
German spokesperson Stefan Kornelius pointed out that the Ukrainian president has shown a willingness for 'peace 'and made significant concessions, urging Russia to reciprocate and commit to serious negotiations.
This renewed call for a ceasefire follows a recent visit to Kyiv by leaders from France, Germany, Poland, and the UK, who collectively encouraged Moscow to accept a temporary truce as a step toward lasting peace.
In response, President Putin proposed to restart direct talks in Istanbul on May 15, saying that - "discussions could lead to a genuine ceasefire, marking a potential first step toward enduring peace rather than merely a pause in hostilities."