Macron says Putin’s proposal for direct Ukraine-Russia talks in Istanbul is not enough

Speaking to reporters on Sunday, May 11, in the Polish city of Przemyśl after returning from a visit to Ukraine, Macron responded to Putin’s overnight proposal to resume negotiations between Ukrainian and Russian representatives in Istanbul on May 15 without preconditions.

“A ceasefire without conditions, by definition, does not include negotiations,” Macron said. “It shows that he [Putin] is looking for a way forward, but he still wants to buy time.”

When asked whether the offer was simply a delaying tactic, Macron replied, “Yes, yes, it is.”

Putin’s statement late Saturday night claimed the Kremlin “has repeatedly proposed ceasefire measures” and has “never refused dialogue” with Ukraine. However, the Russian leader made no mention of the 30-day ceasefire proposal backed by Ukraine’s Western partners, including the so-called "coalition of the willing," which is set to begin on May 12.

Putin said he expects a response to his proposal from Ukraine and its “Western patrons.”