The Kremlin has confirmed its readiness to resume talks with Ukraine in Istanbul, but categorically rejects any preconditions, including demands for a ceasefire. This was stated by the press secretary of the Russian president, Dmitry Peskov, commenting on Vladimir Putin's speech on the night of May 11, 2025. According to Peskov, Russia is striving for a "serious search for ways to resolve the Ukrainian crisis in a long-term manner," but considers the "language of ultimatums" from the West unacceptable. The statement came amid a new round of tension caused by calls from the European Union for an immediate end to hostilities under the threat of the 17th sanctions package.

Putin's speech, as Peskov specified, clearly outlined Moscow's position: dialogue with Kiev is possible only on an equal basis, without the imposition of external demands. The Kremlin emphasizes that the format of negotiations in Istanbul, where consultations were already held in March 2022, remains preferable. Then, according to the BBC, the parties discussed Ukraine's neutral status and security guarantees, but an agreement was not reached due to disagreements on territorial issues. Peskov noted that Russia's current position has found understanding among a number of leaders of the Global South, including India and South Africa, who, according to Reuters, are calling for a diplomatic settlement.

The Kremlin's statement was a response to an ultimatum from European leaders, voiced via Bloomberg, about the need for a ceasefire by May 12. Otherwise, the EU is preparing to approve a new package of sanctions on May 14, which will affect Russia's "shadow fleet" and expand the blacklists of individuals and legal entities. The German government, according to Frankfurter Allgemeine Zeitung, emphasized that the lack of progress in the ceasefire is forcing Brussels to tighten measures.