World wants clear decision on ceasefire from Russia - Tusk
Following an appeal by the so-called 'coalition of the willing', Moscow proposed peace talks starting May 15, but the world expects an unequivocal decision on ceasefire from Russia, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk has said.
On Saturday, Tusk along with French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky met in Kyiv to put pressure on Russia to agree to a full and unconditional 30-day ceasefire in its war against Ukraine and to engage in peace talks.
The initiative was supported by the leaders of about 30 countries of the 'coalition of the willing' [which have agreed to continue efforts to aid Ukraine in its fight against Russia], who connected with Kyiv via the Internet. The proposal was also supported by US President Donald Trump.
On Sunday, world news agencies reported that Russian President Vladimir Putin had proposed direct talks with Ukraine in Istanbul on May 15 "without preconditions."
Later that day, Tusk took to the X platform to comment on Russia's proposal.
"In response to our appeal, the Russians have proposed peace talks starting May 15," he wrote.
"The world, however, ?s waiting for univocal decision on an immediate and unconditional ceasefire. Ukraine is ready. No more victims!," he added.
Zelensky commented on Putin’s invitation for talks in Istanbul on Sunday.
"It is a positive sign that the Russians have finally begun to consider ending the war," he said.
"We expect Russia to confirm a ceasefire on Monday," Zelensky added. (PAP)
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