Kremlin: Russia ready for serious talks on Ukraine

Russia is open to engaging in serious discussions aimed at a long-term resolution of the war in Ukraine, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said on May 12.

Peskov reminded reporters that Russian President Vladimir Putin had previously proposed holding direct negotiations in Istanbul without any preconditions, Caliber.Az reports per Russian media.

He claimed the initiative, which seeks to address the root causes of the conflict and establish lasting peace, has garnered support from several foreign leaders.

"Overall, we are focused on a serious search for ways to achieve a long-term peaceful settlement," Peskov stated.

However, he declined to comment on the potential composition of the Russian delegation for talks in Istanbul, nor did he offer further details on the proposed negotiations.

Peskov also pushed back against what he described as Western pressure, warning that threats of additional European sanctions, should Moscow refuse to halt its military operations—would not lead to productive dialogue.

"The language of ultimatums is unacceptable for Russia; it simply doesn't work," he said during a briefing. "You cannot speak to Russia in that manner."

By Aghakazim Guliyev