Kyiv (National Times): Ukraine has offered to restart peace negotiations with Russia next week, following a month-long impasse in diplomatic efforts, according to a report by Al Jazeera.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed in his Saturday evening address that National Security and Defence Council Secretary Rustem Umerov had formally extended an invitation to Russian representatives for a fresh round of talks.
“Everything must be done to secure a ceasefire,” Zelenskyy emphasized. “The Russian side must stop evading responsibility.” He also renewed his call for a direct meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin, stating, “A leadership-level meeting is essential to secure lasting peace.”
As of now, Russia has not publicly responded to the proposal.
Umerov, who previously served as defence minister, was appointed last week to head Ukraine’s Security and Defence Council. He has been tasked with injecting renewed energy into the stalled diplomatic process. Notably, Umerov led Ukraine’s delegation in two prior rounds of negotiations in Turkey earlier this year, which led only to limited agreements on prisoner exchanges and the repatriation of fallen soldiers.
In earlier discussions, Russia presented a series of stringent demands, including Ukraine’s cession of four contested regions and an end to its military ties with Western nations—conditions Kyiv has consistently rejected.
Despite this, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov recently acknowledged Zelenskyy’s remarks that the peace process needs “more momentum,” suggesting a possible softening in Moscow’s stance.
The development comes amid rising international pressure. U.S. President Donald Trump this week issued a stark ultimatum to Russia: agree to a ceasefire within 50 days or face sweeping new sanctions, including 100% tariffs and potential secondary sanctions on countries purchasing Russian oil. Additionally, Trump pledged to escalate military aid to Ukraine.
In response, Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova denounced the U.S. move, calling the sanctions ultimatum “blackmail” and warning that renewed arms deliveries to Ukraine would only discourage dialogue.
As tensions mount and international stakes rise, Ukraine’s latest outreach signals a cautious but determined push to revive peace talks and end the prolonged conflict.
