Ukraine ready to meet Russia but only if ceasefire agreed, says Zelenskyy

Ukraine has proposed direct negotiations with Russia this week, contingent on an unconditional full-day ceasefire commencing May 12. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and his chief of staff, Andriy Yermak, clarified that such talks will only occur after a 30-day period. Despite European leaders' calls for a 30-day ceasefire in Kyiv, which were rejected by Russia, U.S. President Donald Trump expressed optimism during Twitter exchanges later that day. However, Ukraine demands an immediate Ceasefire to initiate negotiations on a comprehensive settlement, while Russia has rejected this demand and insists on territorial gains and guarantees over political and military decisions in Ukraine.