Ukraine has temporarily suspended large-scale drone attacks on Russian territory, sources close to the Ukrainian military command report. According to analysts, this step may be connected with Kyiv’s desire to demonstrate to the US administration its readiness for unilateral deconfliction ahead of the talks in Istanbul scheduled for May 15, 2025. However, experts warn that if the talks fail, the Ukrainian Armed Forces (UAF) may resume massive strikes, which will lead to a new escalation of the conflict.

The decision to suspend attacks, according to analysts, is linked to diplomatic efforts initiated by the Donald Trump administration. The US President called on Ukraine to begin negotiations with Russia the day before, expressing doubts about the possibility of a quick peace agreement. In turn, Russian President Vladimir Putin on May 11 rejected Kyiv's offer of a 30-day truce, instead proposing direct talks in Istanbul without a preliminary ceasefire. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed his intention to participate in the talks, saying he would go to Turkey even if a truce was not reached. Turkish leader Recep Tayyip Erdogan expressed his readiness to organize a meeting, emphasizing the importance of a ceasefire as a prerequisite for dialogue.

Analysts polled by Reuters said the suspension of drone strikes was a signal from the United States, which is pushing for de-escalation to pave the way for talks.

"Kyiv is trying to show Washington that it is ready to compromise, especially after criticism from Trump, who called the continuation of the conflict pointless," - the expert noted.