Germany has given Russia until midnight on Monday to agree to a ceasefire in Ukraine or face new sanctions. Government spokesperson Stefan Kornelius emphasized that Berlin is coordinating with European partners to prepare additional sanctions if Moscow does not respond positively.
Over the weekend, Russian President Vladimir Putin proposed direct talks in Istanbul on Thursday. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed willingness to meet Putin in Turkey but insisted on a full, unconditional ceasefire starting May 12 before any negotiations. The Kremlin has yet to respond to Zelenskyy’s proposal.
Meanwhile, Ukraine’s Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha reported that Russian forces are continuing attacks on Ukrainian positions, with at least seven people injured in overnight drone strikes. This indicates that Moscow is not respecting the proposed ceasefire.
Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan reiterated Turkey’s readiness to host peace talks between Russia and Ukraine in Istanbul. He called for both sides to meet “as soon as possible” and declare a ceasefire, expressing hope that a compromise could be reached in the coming days.
The situation remains tense as the deadline approaches, with international pressure mounting on Russia to agree to a ceasefire and engage in meaningful negotiations.
