Russian President Vladimir Putin has signalled he is open to bilateral talks with Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky for the first time since the early stages of the war. Speaking to Russian state TV on Monday, Putin said Russia has "always looked positively on any peace initiatives. We hope that representatives of the Kyiv regime will feel the same way". Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said Putin's comments indicated a willingness to engage in direct talks with Ukraine about not striking civilian targets. Zelensky did not respond directly to Putin's comments, but said Ukraine was "ready for any conversation" that would ensure the safety of civilians.

In a move that could potentially shift the dynamics of the ongoing conflict, Russian President Vladimir Putin announced his willingness to engage in peace initiatives with Ukraine. The proposal follows accusations from both sides about violations of a unilateral ceasefire declared by Russia over the Easter weekend. Washington has expressed interest in extending these ceasefires, while Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has called for a 30-day truce to protect civilian areas. The prospect of bilateral talks marks a significant development since a failed peace effort three years ago.

Russian President Vladimir Putin proposed on Monday bilateral talks with Ukraine for the first time since the early days of the war, and his Ukrainian counterpart Volodymyr Zelenskiy said Kyiv was eager to discuss a halt to attacks on civilian targets. While Zelenskiy did not respond directly to Putin's proposal, he emphasized in his nightly video address that Ukraine "was ready for any conversation" about a ceasefire that would stop strikes on civilians.