Zelensky Demands Cease-Fire in Response to Putin’s Call for Direct Talks

President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine cautiously welcomed Russia's offer for direct talks, framing it as a positive sign but emphasizing the need for an immediate truce before addressing President Putin's Istanbul meeting suggestion. The conversation occurred amid recent discussions in Kyiv by leaders from France, Britain, Germany, and Poland, who set a Monday deadline for Russia to accept a 30-day pause or face further U.S.-imposed sanctions. Meanwhile, the Trump administration has maintained diplomatic ties with Russia, aligning on UN resolutions but without increasing economic pressure beyond existing sanctions.