Zelenskyy: Ukraine ready for direct talks with Russia at 'leaders' level, proposes 30-day ceasefire

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has expressed Ukraine’s readiness to engage in direct talks with Russia at the highest level, stating that Kyiv is not afraid of negotiations if they lead to a real and lasting peace.

Following a meeting with the Ukrainian delegation involved in recent negotiations with Russia in Türkiye, Zelenskyy provided an update on the ongoing diplomatic efforts.

"I held a meeting on our diplomatic efforts to end the war and to establish a real and durable peace," Zelenskyy wrote on social media.

During the meeting, Defense Minister Rustem Umerov reported on the progress of talks held on May 15–16 in Türkiye, highlighting both Ukraine’s commitment to peace and the need to maintain pressure on Russia to end its aggression.

One of the key outcomes of the talks, Zelenskyy noted, was a preliminary agreement on a major prisoner exchange — 1,000 Ukrainian prisoners in return for 1,000 Russian captives. Details are still being finalized.

"The Ukrainian delegation succeeded in keeping the talks in a dignified manner. All Russian attempts to issue threats were rejected," Zelenskyy emphasized. He reiterated Ukraine’s demand for a full and unconditional ceasefire, proposing a 30-day truce that could be extended, with support from international partners.

Crucially, Zelenskyy stated, "We are also prepared for a meeting at the level of leaders to solve the key issues. Ukraine is not afraid of direct talks with Russia."

Ukraine’s Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha and the Head of the President’s Office Andriy Yermak also briefed Zelenskyy on consultations with allies, including the United States, France, the United Kingdom, Germany, Italy, Poland, and Türkiye. Yermak presented the positions of these nations, with Zelenskyy noting that coordination with partners is ongoing "on an almost daily basis."

As a next step, the President has instructed the formation of a permanent and expanded national negotiation group to continue efforts toward ending the war.

Zelenskyy thanked all international partners for their continued support and emphasized that a diplomatic resolution remains the priority.