In a significant shift, Russian President Vladimir Putin has publicly expressed openness to direct peace negotiations with Ukraine for the first time in years. This comes on the heels of a brief 30-hour Easter ceasefire, which saw limited adherence from both sides.

Speaking to Russian state media, Putin said Moscow is ready to consider bilateral dialogue and extended ceasefires, emphasizing a willingness to engage in any initiative aimed at ending the prolonged conflict. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov confirmed that Putin was referencing possible discussions with Ukraine focused on reducing civilian harm and de-escalation.

Despite Putin’s comments, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky did not directly respond to the proposal. However, he reaffirmed Kyiv’s commitment to symmetrical actions—ceasefire for ceasefire, strike for strike—while highlighting continued Russian attacks even during the Easter truce.

Zelensky also announced a Ukrainian delegation would join talks in London with US and European officials to further explore a path to a sustainable peace, following similar discussions in Paris last week. Ukraine has demanded a full and unconditional ceasefire as a prerequisite to any lasting peace deal.

Meanwhile, both sides continue to report heavy combat activity. Ukraine claimed nearly 3,000 ceasefire violations, while Russia alleged over 900 Ukrainian drone strikes and hundreds of attacks on its positions, with casualties reported on both sides.

As international stakeholders, including the US, push for progress, the possibility of bilateral talks marks a rare moment of diplomatic opening in a conflict now stretching beyond three years.