On May 11, 2025 , after Russian President Vladimir Putin announced his readiness for direct negotiations with Ukraine , US President Donald Trump expressed his opinion on this development . In his post on Truth Social network , he noted that this day can become " potentially large" for Ukraine and Russia. Trump stressed that he would continue to work with both parties to ensure successful result, but expressed his desire to focus on trade and recovery , not in war .
The American leader noted that it could be a big day for Russia and Ukraine, and added that the next week will be very important. He promised that he would work to restore peace and promote the reconstruction both countries. Trump called for focus on peaceful processes and economic development, but instead leaving the war behind.
Putin, in turn , stated that Russia is ready to start negotiations with Ukraine without prior conditions. He added that these negotiations can take place in Istanbul on May 15 However, French President Emmanuel Macron expressed his opinion, saying that Putin's proposal was insufficient, as the event expected an unconditional ceasefire for 30 days, as the first step to a truce. Macron stressed that the Kremlin is " looking for a way out" but not ready for real concessions to complete the conflict. According to him , the unconditional ceasefire implies the beginning of negotiations, not way around.
President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky has not yet answered 's proposal , but on the eve of his and leaders of France, Germany, Poland and the United Kingdom, they appealed to Putin with a proposal to stop fire for 30 days since 12 . Leaders said that only direct negotiations on the end can be started after that .
