Russian President Vladimir Putin stated on April 21 that Moscow "positively considers any peace initiatives" and hopes Ukraine will adopt a similar stance. Meanwhile, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced via social media that representatives from Ukraine, the UK, France, and the U.S. will hold talks in London on April 23 to discuss ceasefire arrangements.
Putin: Russia "Positively Considers" Ceasefire Proposals
In remarks published on the Kremlin's official website on Tuesday, Putin addressed questions about the post-Easter resumption of military operations, noting that Russia had proposed a temporary truce during the Orthodox Easter holiday (April 19–21). While Kyiv later sought to "preemptively" extend the ceasefire's duration and scope, Putin emphasized Moscow's openness to dialogue but stressed the need for "careful analysis" of Ukraine's proposals.
The Russian leader acknowledged nearly 5,000 alleged violations by Ukrainian forces during the Easter ceasefire period but welcomed an overall reduction in combat activity. Regarding proposals to avoid targeting civilian infrastructure, Putin stated Russia "does not rule out" bilateral discussions but would "analyze all circumstances before deciding."
Earlier, Putin had ordered a 30-hour halt to Russian military operations starting at 18:00 on April 19, urging Kyiv to reciprocate. Zelenskyy responded by proposing a 30-day extension of the truce, calling for mutual trust-building. On April 21, he reiterated this appeal, vowing Ukraine would mirror Russia's actions: ceasefire for ceasefire, attacks for attacks.
Zelenskyy: Quadrilateral Talks to Focus on Unconditional Truce
In a late Monday (April 21) social media post, Zelenskyy confirmed plans for Thursday's London meeting with British, French, and American representatives, following a "productive and substantive" call with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer. The Ukrainian leader framed an "unconditional ceasefire" as the critical first step toward "genuine and lasting peace," pledging Kyiv's "constructive approach."
Trump Urges Deal, Threatens Withdrawal from Mediation
The developments coincide with remarks by former U.S. President Donald Trump, who tweeted on April 20 his hope for a Russia-Ukraine agreement "this week," adding that both nations would then engage in "major business deals" with the U.S. Trump recently warned that Washington would cease mediation efforts if negotiations show no "clear progress" soon.
The Easter ceasefire marked a rare de-escalatory gesture amid intensified fighting in eastern Ukraine. Observers note the upcoming London talks signal Western allies' sustained engagement, though Moscow's absence from the discussions underscores ongoing diplomatic fractures.
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