Ukraine to hold peace talks in UK, Russia shows positive stance on any peace initiative

Ukraine and Russia have signaled a renewed willingness to pursue peace, as Kyiv prepares for high-level talks in London and Moscow voices support for diplomatic solutions to the ongoing conflict.

Ukraine on Monday announced it will hold peace talks in London on Wednesday, with the United Kingdom, France, and the United States expected to participate. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy shared the update following what he described as a “good and detailed” phone conversation with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer. Writing on social media platform X, Zelenskyy emphasized Ukraine's readiness to pursue a constructive path toward “an unconditional ceasefire and a lasting peace.”

On the same day, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov confirmed Russia’s continued willingness to seek a diplomatic resolution to the conflict, though he did not provide a specific timeline. Peskov underlined the importance of conducting peace efforts discreetly, warning against public disclosures that could disrupt the process. He also welcomed recent comments from the United States, which indicated opposition to Ukraine joining NATO.

Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump expressed optimism on Truth Social that Russia and Ukraine might reach a deal this week.

In his nightly address, Zelenskyy reiterated Ukraine’s offer not to target civilian infrastructure and called for a clear response from Moscow. “The most reliable way to ensure this commitment is to halt missile and long-range drone strikes,” he said, adding that such a move would automatically protect civilian facilities.

A day earlier, Russian President Vladimir Putin signaled that the Kremlin views peace initiatives positively and hopes Kyiv will do the same. Addressing Ukraine’s proposal to avoid striking civilian infrastructure, Putin said the issue warrants careful review—possibly through bilateral discussions—before decisions are made going forward.

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