The French Presidential Office on May 12 dismissed a fake story pushed by Russia about a paper napkin seen during European leaders' visit to Kyiv.

Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova spread a claim that the footage of a train carriage with French President Emmanuel Macron, U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer, and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz showed a “bag and spoon” for drugs.

The story was subsequently picked up by Russian propagandists, who claimed that the European leaders used drugs during their trip.

"When European unity becomes inconvenient, disinformation goes so far as to make a simple tissue look like drugs," the Elysee Palace reacted, showing a close-up of the tissue.

"This fake news is being spread by France’s enemies, both abroad and at home. We must remain vigilant against manipulation."

Mocking Russian claims, the French Presidential Office added a description to the picture, saying: "This is a tissue. For blowing your nose."

The three European leaders, as well as Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk, visited Kyiv on May 10 to meet President Volodymyr Zelensky and reaffirm their commitment to Ukraine in the face of Russian aggression.

Zelensky and the European partners also endorsed an unconditional ceasefire with Russia starting on May 12, a proposal Moscow ignored.

‘Have the meeting, now!’ — Trump urges Ukraine, Russia to hold direct talks

″(Russian) President (Vladimir) Putin... doesn’t want to have a ceasefire agreement with Ukraine, but rather wants to meet on Thursday, in Turkey, to negotiate a possible end to the bloodbath. Ukraine should agree to this, immediately,” U.S. President Donald Trump said.

The Kyiv IndependentVolodymyr Ivanyshyn

The U.S. State Department reaffirmed on May 11 that securing an immediate ceasefire in Ukraine remains the United States' top priority, despite seemingly contradictory messaging from U.S. President Donald Trump.

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized the U.S. commitment to halting hostilities in Ukraine during a call with U.K. Foreign Secretary David Lammy.

“Our top priority remains bringing an end to the fighting and an immediate ceasefire,” the State Department readout said, citing Rubio.

The secretary of state also held a phone call with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, discussing a recent meeting of European and Ukrainian leaders in Kyiv  and the “shared goal of ending the war in Ukraine."

The comments came after Trump urged Ukraine to agree to direct negotiations with Russian President Vladimir Putin, who has invited Kyiv to peace talks in Istanbul on May 15, without first agreeing to halt military operations.

“President Putin… doesn’t want to have a ceasefire agreement with Ukraine, but rather wants to meet on Thursday, in Turkey, to negotiate a possible end to the bloodbath. Ukraine should agree to this, immediately,” Trump wrote on his social media platform, Truth Social.

Trump’s remarks contrast with the European position and statements made earlier by U.S. Special Envoy Keith Kellogg. Leaders from Germany, France, the U.K., and Poland reiterated during a summit in Kyiv last week that no negotiations should begin without a full and unconditional ceasefire, a stance supported by Kyiv.

Kellogg initially said, “An unconditional 30-day ceasefire first and, during it, move into comprehensive peace discussions. Not the other way around.”

Later, he reposted Trump’s call for talks, claiming, “President Trump has been consistently clear. The killing needs to stop — now,” stopping short of an explicit reference to the ceasefire.

President Volodymyr Zelensky said on May 11 that he is ready to meet Putin in Turkey on May 15.

“We expect a ceasefire from tomorrow (May 12) — this proposal is on the table. A complete and unconditional ceasefire — long-term, to provide the necessary basis for diplomacy — could bring peace much closer,” he added.

Ukraine has accused Russia of ignoring the truce proposal as a Russian drone reportedly attacked a freight train in Donetsk Oblast on May 12, injuring a driver.

Kyiv has already agreed to a U.S.-backed proposal for a 30-day truce, saying it is prepared to move forward if Moscow reciprocates. So far, the Kremlin has refused, instead proposing talks, which, according to Kremlin aide Yury Ushakov, Russia wishes to be based on the terms of the 2022 Istanbul discussions and the “current situation on the battlefield."

The Istanbul talks refer to negotiations between Ukraine and Russia held in Turkey in late March 2022, which outlined potential terms for a peace deal.

In the three years since the failed talks, Russian propaganda networks have frequently promoted the idea that peace was almost achieved in Istanbul before Western leaders, in particular then-U.K. Prime Minister Boris Johnson, allegedly pressured Zelensky to reject the deal and continue fighting.

In reality, leaked documents from 2022 show that Moscow’s first peace offer amounted to Ukraine’s effective surrender, including massive troop reductions, abandonment of advanced weapons, and recognition of Russian control over occupied territories.

Turkey ready to host Russia-Ukraine peace talks, Erdogan tells Macron

Erdogan told Macron that international cooperation is critical for initiating peace negotiations and the “sensitive implementation” of Ukraine’s recovery and reconstruction processes, the Turkish Presidency reported.

The Kyiv IndependentAnna Fratsyvir

Moscow and Hanoi agreed to negotiate and sign agreements to construct nuclear power plants in Vietnam, the two countries said in a joint statement on May 11.

“The development of the plants with advanced technology will strictly be compliant with nuclear and radiation safety regulations and for the benefit of socio-economic development,” they said in the statement, Reuters reported.

Vietnam and Russia have long had close relations, dating back to the Soviet Union’s support for North Vietnam and its proxy forces during the Vietnam War. Hanoi has so far maintained a neutral stance regarding Russia’s war against Ukraine.

The agreement comes as Vietnam’s Communist Party’s General Secretary To Lam visited Moscow for Russian President Vladimir Putin’s Victory Day celebrations.

As Vietnam aims to support its fast-growing economy, the country is committed to increasing its power generation capacity through the use of nuclear energy. Seeking to diversify its economic partnerships, Hanoi previously said that it look for various foreign partners to build the power plants, including the United States, France, South Korea, and Japan, Reuters reported.

The country previously said it aims to deliver nuclear power generation with its first plant opening between 2030 and 2035.

The joint statement between the Kremlin and Hanoi also noted that Russia will expand crude oil and liquefied natural gas (LNG) exports to Vietnam, while Vietnamese oil companies will have a larger presence in Russia in the coming years.

Amid its full-scale invasion of Ukraine, Russia has sought to find new trading partners willing to accept Russian oil and LNG exports, as Western allies continue to cripple Russia’s economy through economic sanctions.

On Jan. 1, Ukraine terminated Russian natural gas transit through its territory, cutting off access to the European market.

Putin previously visited Hanoi in June 2024 when the two countries agreed to deepen their strategic partnership and signed over 10 documents, including a memorandum on the schedule for establishing a nuclear technology center in Vietnam.

Ukraine war latest: Zelensky ready to meet Putin in Turkey, calls for immediate ceasefire

Key developments on May 11: * Zelensky ready to meet Putin in Turkey, calls for immediate ceasefire * Trump urges Ukraine, Russia to hold direct talks ‘immediately’ * US, European leaders resoundingly reject Russia’s proposal for talks without ceasefire first * Russia launches overnight drone attack across Ukraine, damaging civilian infrastructure President Volodymyr Zelensky on May 11 said he is ready to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin in Turkey on May 15. “There is no point in pro

The Kyiv IndependentThe Kyiv Independent news desk

The United Kingdom will unveil a new sanctions package against Russia on May 12, the country’s Foreign Ministry said in a statement,

The sanctions appear to be in response to Russia’s rejection of a 30-day ceasefire that the U.K., alongside, France, Germany, and Poland, demanded during a visit to Kyiv on May 10.

Shortly after Ukraine and its European allies demanded Russia accept the ceasefire agreement, Russian President Vladimir Putin delivered a late-night address marking the end of Moscow’s short-lived Victory Day truce.

Putin did not agree to the 30-day ceasefire and instead invited Ukraine to engage in direct talks with Russia in Istanbul beginning May 15. He also expressed annoyance at “ultimatums” from European states.

"(The nations) agreed that if Russia refuses a full and unconditional ceasefire, stronger sanctions should be applied to its banking and energy sectors, targeting fossil fuels, oil, and the shadow fleet," the five European leaders, including Ukraine, said in a joint statement.

While a statement from the U.K. Foreign Ministry only states broadly sanctions will target “actors supporting Russia’s illegal invasion,” U.K. Foreign Secretary David Lammy will unveil the sanctions during a summit of EU Foreign Ministers in London.

The European Weimar+ group of Foreign Ministers is set to occur ahead of Prime Minister Keir Starmer’s summit with EU leaders next week.

The European proposal for the 30-day ceasefire is backed by the United States, which first called for a complete month-long truce between Russia and Ukraine in March. Kyiv at the time agreed to the plan, but Russia refused to accept an unconditional ceasefire and insisted Ukraine first give up all foreign military aid.

In a post to social media on May 11, U.S. President Donald Trump urged Ukraine and Russia to hold peace in Istanbul on May 15 — which President Volodymyr Zelensky subsequently agreed to.

“There is no point in prolonging the killings. And I will wait for Putin on Thursday in Turkey,” Zelensky said.

European officials are shortly expected to agree upon a 17th sanctions package against Russia that will reportedly add over 100 vessels associated with Russia’s shadow fleet to the sanctions list, and will target suspects linked to the use of chemical weapons in Ukraine.

Ukraine war latest: Zelensky ready to meet Putin in Turkey, calls for immediate ceasefire

Key developments on May 11: * Zelensky ready to meet Putin in Turkey, calls for immediate ceasefire * Trump urges Ukraine, Russia to hold direct talks ‘immediately’ * US, European leaders resoundingly reject Russia’s proposal for talks without ceasefire first * Russia launches overnight drone attack across Ukraine, damaging civilian infrastructure President Volodymyr Zelensky on May 11 said he is ready to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin in Turkey on May 15. “There is no point in pro

The Kyiv IndependentThe Kyiv Independent news desk

Editor’s note: This is a developing story and is being updated

Three were injured in Russia’s Kursk Oblast when the town of Rylsk was allegedly struck by a missile attack on May 11, local governor Alexander Khinshtein claimed.

Ukraine regularly strikes military targets within Russia as Moscow continues to wage its war against Ukraine. Russian President Vladimir Putin acknowledged on April 30 that Ukrainian soldiers remain in Kursk Oblast.

“According to preliminary information, three people were injured. All were taken to the Rylsk Central Regional Hospital,” Khinshtein said.

A hotel entrance was damaged as a result of the impact from a missile, the local governor claimed.

“The blast wave also damaged two cars and two private homes: windows were knocked out, the roof and garage were damaged. Three more cars were cut by shrapnel,” Khinshtein said.

Ukraine has not officially commented on the reported strikes, and the Kyiv Independent could not independently verify claims made by Russian officials.

President Volodymyr Zelensky has said he will travel to Istanbul for peace talks on May 15 in response to Putin rejecting a ceasefire proposal and instead suggesting peace talks between Ukraine and Russia should continue.

Ukraine has insisted on a full 30-day unconditional ceasefire before peace talks begin.

“We expect a ceasefire from tomorrow — this proposal is on the table. A complete and unconditional ceasefire — long-term, to provide the necessary basis for diplomacy — could bring peace much closer,” Zelensky said.

Ukraine war latest: Zelensky ready to meet Putin in Turkey, calls for immediate ceasefire

Key developments on May 11: * Zelensky ready to meet Putin in Turkey, calls for immediate ceasefire * Trump urges Ukraine, Russia to hold direct talks ‘immediately’ * US, European leaders resoundingly reject Russia’s proposal for talks without ceasefire first * Russia launches overnight drone attack across Ukraine, damaging civilian infrastructure President Volodymyr Zelensky on May 11 said he is ready to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin in Turkey on May 15. “There is no point in pro

The Kyiv IndependentThe Kyiv Independent news desk

Key developments on May 11:

• Zelensky ready to meet Putin in Turkey, calls for immediate ceasefire
• Trump urges Ukraine, Russia to hold direct talks ‘immediately’
• US, European leaders resoundingly reject Russia’s proposal for talks without ceasefire first
• Russia launches overnight drone attack across Ukraine, damaging civilian infrastructure

President Volodymyr Zelensky on May 11 said he is ready to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin in Turkey on May 15.

“There is no point in prolonging the killings. And I will wait for Putin on Thursday in Turkey,” Zelensky said.

“We expect a ceasefire from tomorrow — this proposal is on the table. A complete and unconditional ceasefire — long-term, to provide the necessary basis for diplomacy — could bring peace much closer,” he added in a separate statement.

As Ukraine’s allies push for an unconditional ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine, Putin has instead suggested direct peace talks be held in Istanbul beginning May 15.

“We have repeatedly heard from partners that they are ready to strengthen sanctions against Russia if Putin refuses a ceasefire,” Zelensky said.

“I hope that this time the Russians do not look for reasons why they cannot. … We in Ukraine have no problem holding negotiations — we are ready for any format. I will be in Turkey this Thursday."

Kyiv has said it is ready to talk but insists any negotiations must begin with a full cessation of hostilities.

Join our community

Support independent journalism in Ukraine. Join us in this fight.

Support Us

"I will be in Turkey this Thursday, May 15 — and I am expecting Putin in Turkey," Zelensky said.

The Kremlin has shown no signs it is willing to move forward on a peace deal with Ukraine. Russian authorities have listed maximalist demands in ceasefire negotiations brokered by the U.S.

Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov rejected the idea of a 30-day ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine, claiming on May 10 that it would be "an advantage" for Ukraine.

Ukraine has already agreed to a U.S.-proposed full 30-day ceasefire, saying on March 11 that Kyiv is ready if Russia also agrees to the terms. So far, Moscow has refused.

Pope Leo XIV urges global peace in first Sunday address, calls for end to war in Ukraine

The pope said he was praying to God to grant the world the “miracle of peace.”

The Kyiv IndependentAnna Fratsyvir

'Have the meeting, now!' — Trump urges Ukraine, Russia to hold direct talks

Ukraine and Russia should hold peace talks "immediately," Trump said in a post to social media on May 11.

"(Russian) President (Vladimir) Putin... doesn't want to have a ceasefire agreement with Ukraine, but rather wants to meet on Thursday, in Turkey, to negotiate a possible end to the bloodbath. Ukraine should agree to this, immediately," Trump said on his Truth Social account.

"At least they will be able to determine whether or not a deal is possible, and if it is not, European leaders, and the U.S., will know where everything stands, and can proceed accordingly!" Trump said.

"I'm starting to doubt that Ukraine will make a deal with Putin, who's too busy celebrating the Victory of World War II ... Have the meeting, now!"

Trump's support for the proposed Istanbul talks marks a departure from how other Western leaders — including some U.S. officials — have responded to Putin's invitation. Ukraine's European allies have said a ceasefire must come before negotiations.

In a historic meeting in Kyiv on May 10, Ukraine and European allies put forth a demand for a 30-day unconditional ceasefire beginning May 12. By responding with an invitation to talks and no promises to extend the ceasefire, Putin refused the call for an unconditional truce.

US, European leaders resoundingly reject Russia's proposal for talks without ceasefire first

Putin's proposal to resume peace talks with Ukraine in Istanbul starting May 15 has been met with rejection by the United States and key European leaders, who insist that no negotiations can begin without a full and unconditional ceasefire, according to their statements from May 11.

In a press conference in the early hours of the day, Putin invited Ukraine to restart talks, which, according to Ushakov, Russia wishes to be based on the terms of the 2022 Istanbul discussions and the "current situation on the battlefield."

Putin's proposal came just a day after French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer, and Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk met with Zelensky in Kyiv to support a joint Western call for a 30-day unconditional ceasefire.

That proposal, initially floated by Trump, is being finalized by the U.S. and European allies.

Tusk wrote: "In response to our appeal, the Russians have proposed peace talks starting May 15. The world, however, is waiting for a univocal decision on an immediate and unconditional ceasefire. Ukraine is ready. No more victims!"

U.S. Special Envoy Keith Kellogg echoed these concerns, saying, "As President Trump has repeatedly said, stop the killing!! An unconditional 30-day ceasefire first and, during it, move into comprehensive peace discussions.  Not the other way around."

"Yesterday in Kyiv, we and our partners called for a 30-day ceasefire to create space for negotiations. Ukraine agreed with no ifs or buts," Merz said in a statement on X. "We expect Moscow to now agree to a ceasefire. This is essential before beginning a genuine dialogue. Talks cannot begin until the weapons fall silent."

The Kremlin, meanwhile, has continued to reject any ceasefire proposal, saying that the talks must start first.

Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova emphasized that Putin "clearly said: first negotiate about the root causes, and then we can talk about a ceasefire."

Moscow's demands include the withdrawal of Ukrainian troops from four partially occupied regions, the formal recognition of their annexation, the recognition of Crimea, a ban on NATO membership, and changes reinstating the role of the Russian language and church.

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, in a May 11 call, reiterated Turkey's offer to host the talks and facilitate efforts toward "sustainable peace," according to the Kremlin's readout. Though the matter was not included in the Kremlin readout, Turkey's statement on the call also stressed the importance of a ceasefire before peace talks begin.

The Istanbul peace talks, first attempted in March 2022, ultimately collapsed. Leaked documents later revealed Moscow’s initial offer essentially meant a de facto Ukrainian surrender, including massive troop reductions, abandonment of advanced weapons, and recognition of Russian control over occupied territories.

Opinion: Were the Istanbul peace talks a missed opportunity for Ukraine?

Recent reflections on the Russo-Ukrainian peace talks in Istanbul at the start of the full-scale invasion in 2022 offer new insights and perspectives. However, they often overlook a crucial factor: Moscow’s dismal history of honoring political and security agreements with former Soviet republics. Many analyses naively assume the Kremlin would adhere to any signed deal, ignoring Russia’s well-documented pattern of broken promises. Over the past 35 years, Russia has repeatedly demonstrated a disr

The Kyiv IndependentAndreas Umland

Ukraine downs 60 drones in Russian overnight attack

Russia launched an overnight drone attack across Ukraine early on May 11, injuring one person in Kyiv Oblast and damaging civilian infrastructure in several regions, according to Ukrainian officials.

The assault began around 2 a.m. on May 11, with Russian forces deploying 108 Shahed-type attack drones and decoy UAVs from multiple directions, Ukraine’s Air Force said.

Ukrainian air defense systems, including aviation units, missile forces, electronic warfare units, and mobile fire teams, intercepted 60 Shahed drones across the eastern, northern, southern, and central regions of the country. Another 41 decoy drones were lost from radar but did not cause damage.

In Kyiv Oblast, a 70-year-old man in Brovary District suffered an acute stress reaction during the attack and is receiving medical care, according to regional authorities. A summer house was damaged in the strike, and five private homes were hit in the Obukhiv District, which lies south of the capital, Kyiv. No critical infrastructure was affected.

In Sumy Oblast, Russian forces carried out more than 100 strikes on 31 settlements across 14 communities over the past day. The attacks included nearly 10 guided aerial bombs, 30 FPV drone assaults, approximately 30 grenade drops from drones, and over 70 multiple-launch rocket system explosions, regional officials reported. Additionally, Russian helicopters launched 10 rockets.

While there were no fatalities or injuries reported in Sumy, several civilian structures were damaged or destroyed, including non-residential buildings and private homes.

Putin’s proposed talks ‘a first step, but not enough,’ Macron says

“An unconditional ceasefire is not preceded by negotiations,” French President Emmanuel Macron told reporters on May 11.

The Kyiv IndependentAbbey Fenbert

Note from the author:

Ukraine War Latest is put together by the Kyiv Independent news desk team, who keep you informed 24 hours a day, seven days a week. If you value our work and want to ensure we have the resources to continue, join the Kyiv Independent community.

What will the new pope mean for Ukraine?

Editor’s Note: This story has been updated to include comments from a 2022 interview, given while Robert Prevost was Bishop of Chiclayo, Peru. With the announcement that Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost has been chosen as the new pope and leader of the Catholic Church, Ukrainians are wondering what the surprise appointment of the American-born pontiff will mean for their country. Past comments made by the new pope, who has taken the name Pope Leo XIV, quickly surfaced to form an idea of his vie

The Kyiv IndependentAndrea Januta,

Ukraine and Russia should hold peace talks “immediately,” U.S. President Donald Trump said in a post to social media on May 11.

"(Russian) President (Vladimir) Putin… doesn’t want to have a ceasefire agreement with Ukraine, but rather wants to meet on Thursday, in Turkey, to negotiate a possible end to the bloodbath. Ukraine should agree to this, immediately," Trump said on his Truth Social account.

Europe has proposed increasing sanctions pressure on Russia in response to the Kremlin’s resistance to U.S.-brokered ceasefire efforts. Putin has rejected an immediate ceasefire and instead suggested direct peace talks be held in Istanbul beginning May 15.

“At least they will be able to determine whether or not a deal is possible, and if it is not, European leaders, and the U.S., will know where everything stands, and can proceed accordingly!” Trump said.

“I’m starting to doubt that Ukraine will make a deal with Putin, who’s too busy celebrating the Victory of World War II … Have the meeting, now!”

Trump’s support for the proposed Istanbul talks marks a departure from how other Western leaders — including some U.S. officials — have responded to Putin’s invitation. Ukraine’s European allies have said a ceasefire must come before negotiations.

U.S. Special Envoy Keith Kellogg echoed these points, saying, “As President Trump has repeatedly said, stop the killing!! An unconditional 30-day ceasefire first and, during it, move into comprehensive peace discussions.  Not the other way around."

Kyiv has said it is ready to talk but insists any negotiations must begin with a full cessation of hostilities.

The Kremlin has shown no signs it is willing to move forward on a peace deal with Ukraine, to Trump’s reported frustration. Russian authorities have listed maximalist demands in ceasefire negotiations brokered by the U.S.

Ukraine has already agreed to a U.S.-proposed full 30-day ceasefire, saying on March 11 that Kyiv is ready if Russia also agrees to the terms. So far, Moscow has refused.

In a historic meeting in Kyiv on May 10, Ukraine and European allies put forth a demand for a 30-day unconditional ceasefire beginning May 12. By responding with an invitation to talks and no promises to extend the ceasefire, Putin refused the call for an unconditional truce.

‘We have not surrendered’ — how Ukrainians living under Russian occupation defied Putin’s ‘Victory Day’

Editor’s Note: The identities of Yellow Ribbon activists who live in Russian-occupied territory have been withheld for security reasons. “When my child hears about May 9 they almost scream, and so do I,” an activist with the Ukrainian Yellow Ribbon civil resistance group currently living in the Russian-occupied town of Tokmak in Zaporizhzhia Oblast, tells the Kyiv Independent. “Every week at school, from the very beginning of the semester, my kid has to do something about May 9,’” “We have le

The Kyiv IndependentYuliia Taradiuk

In a recent push for diplomacy, Moscow has emphasized the need for negotiations with Ukraine in Istanbul before the potential establishment of a long-term ceasefire. On Sunday, May 11, Maria Zakharova, the official spokesperson for Russia's Foreign Ministry, referenced President Vladimir Putin’s overnight statement, which explicitly highlighted the “necessity of a negotiation process to address the root causes” of the war initiated by Russia against Ukraine.

Zakharova, as cited by Russia's state information agency, TASS, stated that only "after this" would discussions about a "truce" be viable.

Earlier, the Russian president proposed direct talks with Ukraine in Istanbul on May 15 without preconditions. The aim, he noted, would be to “eliminate the fundamental causes of the conflict and establish a long-term, stable peace from a historical perspective.” This proposition was in response to the Ukrainian and four European countries’ proposal for a 30-day ceasefire starting May 12, though he did not comment on it directly. Previously, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov indicated that Russia might agree to a truce considering specific "nuances."

Following this, Kyiv once again rejected any negotiations with Russia until a full, long-term, and reliable ceasefire is achieved. “There’s no sense in continuing the bloodshed even for a day,” stated Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky. U.S. President Donald Trump has affirmed that he will “continue engaging with both sides” to bring the war to an end. Meanwhile, leaders in Paris and Berlin accused Putin of trying to evade genuine peace-making efforts.

In a meeting held in Kyiv the day before, Zelensky, along with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, French President Emmanuel Macron, and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk, jointly urged Russia to establish a "complete and unconditional ceasefire on land, in the air, and at sea for at least 30 days” starting May 12.

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio will travel to Turkey next week amid a suggestion to renew Russia-Ukraine peace talks, the White House said in a statement published May 11.

Rubio will accompany U.S. President Donald Trump on a May 11–14 visit to Saudi Arabia and Qatar aimed at deepening regional partnerships and discussing global security concerns. He will then continue to Antalya, Turkey, for a NATO foreign ministers’ meeting from May 14–16, where he is expected to address the war in Ukraine and push for stronger Allied defense commitments.

The visit comes as Russia publicly proposes restarting peace talks with Ukraine in Istanbul beginning May 15, but without agreeing to the unconditional 30-day ceasefire demanded by the United States, Ukraine, and key European allies.

“Secretary Rubio’s engagements with senior officials will advance solutions to global and regional challenges, expand bilateral trade and investment, and reaffirm our strategic partnerships,” the White House said.

At the NATO meeting in Antalya, Rubio is expected to promote President Trump’s agenda of “ensuring that our Allies contribute their fair share” to NATO and to push for a unified stance on ending the war in Ukraine.

The trip follows Russia’s offer, announced May 11, to resume negotiations in Istanbul, which, according to Kremlin aide Yury Ushakov, Russia wishes to be based on the terms of the 2022 Istanbul discussions and the “current situation on the battlefield.” Kremlin wants discussions to renew before any ceasefire agreement.

Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova emphasized that Putin “clearly said: first negotiate about the root causes, and then we can talk about a ceasefire."

Moscow’s demands include the withdrawal of Ukrainian troops from four partially occupied regions, the formal recognition of their annexation, the recognition of Crimea, a ban on NATO membership, and changes reinstating the role of the Russian language and church.

U.S. Special Envoy Keith Kellogg reacted on X, saying, “As President Trump has repeatedly said, stop the killing!! An unconditional 30-day ceasefire first and, during it, move into comprehensive peace discussions.  Not the other way around."

Turkey ready to host Russia-Ukraine peace talks, Erdogan tells Macron

Erdogan told Macron that international cooperation is critical for initiating peace negotiations and the “sensitive implementation” of Ukraine’s recovery and reconstruction processes, the Turkish Presidency reported.

The Kyiv IndependentAnna Fratsyvir

Ukrainian authorities have insisted on a prolonged ceasefire as a prerequisite for any negotiations with Russia, the so-called aggressor nation. "There is no point in continuing the killings, even for a day. We expect Russia to confirm a complete, lasting, and reliable ceasefire starting tomorrow, May 12, and Ukraine is ready to meet," declared Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Sunday, May 11. Responding to the Kremlin's proposal, Zelensky emphasized Ukraine's readiness for negotiations.

Simultaneously, he deemed Russia's statements "a good sign," interpreting them as a contemplation of ending the war. "The whole world has long awaited this. The very first step to truly ending any war is a ceasefire," emphasized Zelensky, addressing Russian President Vladimir Putin's proposition for talks in Istanbul.

Meanwhile, Andriy Yermak, head of the Ukrainian President’s Office, stated in his Telegram channel that a ceasefire lasting 30 days—a condition previously set by Kyiv—is crucial for any further peace settlement steps. "Russia should not disguise a desire to continue the war with verbal constructs. A ceasefire is the first step towards ending the war, confirming Russia’s willingness to stop the killings," added Yermak.

Previously, in a summit held in Kyiv, Zelensky along with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, French President Emmanuel Macron, and UK and Polish Prime Ministers Keir Starmer and Donald Tusk jointly called on Russia to establish a “complete unconditional ceasefire” on land, sea, and air for at least 30 days starting May 12. Before this, the participants had a call with President Trump. Putin responded with a nighttime statement, suggesting direct peace talks with Ukraine in Istanbul on May 15 without prior conditions to “eliminate the root causes of the conflict and achieve a long-term, lasting peace for the historical perspective.” However, he did not directly comment on the proposal from Ukraine and the four European countries.

Earlier, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov noted that Russia would be ready for a truce considering certain "nuances."

Following Putin's statement, U.S. President Donald Trump announced that he would "continue to work with both parties" to secure an end to Russia's war against Ukraine. Meanwhile, Macron criticized Putin's proposal as "insufficient," accusing him of aspiring to sidestep addressing real peace efforts.

Russian president Vladimir Putin’s proposal to resume peace talks with Ukraine in Istanbul starting May 15 has been met with rejection by the United States and key European leaders, who insist that no negotiations can begin without a full and unconditional ceasefire, according to their statements from May 11.

In a press conference in the early hours of the day, Putin invited Ukraine to restart talks, which, according to Kremlin aide Yury Ushakov, Russia wishes to be based on the terms of the 2022 Istanbul discussions and the “current situation on the battlefield."

Putin’s proposal came just a day after French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer, and Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk met with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky in Kyiv to support a joint Western call for a 30-day unconditional ceasefire.

Kyiv has said it is ready to talk but insists any negotiations must begin with a full cessation of hostilities.

That proposal, initially floated by U.S. President Donald Trump, is being finalized by the U.S. and European allies.

Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk wrote: “In response to our appeal, the Russians have proposed peace talks starting May 15. The world, however, is waiting for a univocal decision on an immediate and unconditional ceasefire. Ukraine is ready. No more victims!"

U.S. Special Envoy Keith Kellogg echoed these concerns, saying, “As President Trump has repeatedly said, stop the killing!! An unconditional 30-day ceasefire first and, during it, move into comprehensive peace discussions.  Not the other way around."

“Yesterday in Kyiv, we and our partners called for a 30-day ceasefire to create space for negotiations. Ukraine agreed with no ifs or buts,” German Chancellor Merz said in a statement on X. “We expect Moscow to now agree to a ceasefire. This is essential before beginning a genuine dialogue. Talks cannot begin until the weapons fall silent."

The Kremlin, meanwhile, has continued to reject any ceasefire proposal, saying that the talks must start first.

Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova emphasized that Putin “clearly said: first negotiate about the root causes, and then we can talk about a ceasefire."

Moscow’s demands include the withdrawal of Ukrainian troops from four partially occupied regions, the formal recognition of their annexation, the recognition of Crimea, a ban on NATO membership, and changes reinstating the role of the Russian language and church.

Erdogan, in a May 11 call, reiterated Turkey’s offer to host the talks and facilitate efforts toward “sustainable peace,” according to the Kremlin’s readout. Though the matter was not included in the Kremlin readout, Turkey’s statement on the call also stressed the importance of a ceasefire before peace talks begin.

The Istanbul peace talks, first attempted in March 2022, ultimately collapsed. Leaked documents later revealed Moscow’s initial offer essentially meant a de facto Ukrainian surrender, including massive troop reductions, abandonment of advanced weapons, and recognition of Russian control over occupied territories.

Opinion: Were the Istanbul peace talks a missed opportunity for Ukraine?

Recent reflections on the Russo-Ukrainian peace talks in Istanbul at the start of the full-scale invasion in 2022 offer new insights and perspectives. However, they often overlook a crucial factor: Moscow’s dismal history of honoring political and security agreements with former Soviet republics. Many analyses naively assume the Kremlin would adhere to any signed deal, ignoring Russia’s well-documented pattern of broken promises. Over the past 35 years, Russia has repeatedly demonstrated a disr

The Kyiv IndependentAndreas Umland

U.S. President Donald Trump “will continue to work with both sides” to end Russia’s full-scale war against Ukraine, Trump said in a social media post on May 11.

Trump’s comments come shortly after Ukraine and Europe put forth a proposal for a 30-day unconditional ceasefire beginning May 12. Russian President Vladimir Putin has not agreed to the plan, but has invited Kyiv to resume direct talks in Istanbul on May 15.

“A potentially great day for Russia and Ukraine!” Trump wrote on his Truth Social account.

“Think of the hundreds of thousands of lives that will be saved as this never ending ‘bloodbath’ hopefully comes to an end… I will continue to work with both sides to make sure that it happens.”

Trump did not directly mention the ceasefire proposal or Putin’s suggested talks in Istanbul. It is not clear what he is referring to when he mentions a “great day for Russia and Ukraine.”

Trump spoke to President Volodymyr Zelensky and visiting European leaders via phone on May 10 in a conversation described as “productive.” The Trump administration has backed the Ukrainian-European ceasefire proposal and threatened to impose sanctions against Moscow if it does not comply.

French President Emmanuel Macron said on May 11 that Putin’s proposed talks were “a first step, but not enough,” adding that an unconditional ceasefire does not require negotiations in advance.

Kyiv, European allies pledge harsher sanctions on Russia’s banking, energy sectors if Moscow refuses ceasefire

Tougher sanctions “should be applied to (Russia’s) banking and energy sectors, targeting fossil fuels, oil, and the shadow fleet,” the leaders of Ukraine, the U.K., France, Germany, and Poland said in a joint statement.

The Kyiv IndependentAbbey Fenbert

Russian President Vladimir Putin’s proposal for direct peace talks with Ukraine is “a first step, but not enough,” French President Emmanuel Macron said on May 11.

Putin earlier extended an invitation to hold direct talks with Ukraine in Istanbul on May 15, saying “Russia is ready for negotiations without any preconditions.”

“An unconditional ceasefire is not preceded by negotiations,” Macron told reporters at the Polish-Ukrainian border, according to Agence France Presse (AFP).

Putin is “looking for a way out, but he still wants to buy time,” he said.

Macron’s remarks come after his May 10 visit to Kyiv alongside U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, and Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk. The European leaders' historic joint visit represented a strong show of solidarity with Ukraine amid intensifying Russian attacks and Russia’s ultranationalist Victory Day celebrations.

Ukraine and its key European allies issued a joint statement demanding Russia accept a full, unconditional ceasefire of 30 days beginning May 12. The proposal is backed by U.S. President Donald Trump and the European Union.

The nations pledged to enact harsh sanctions on Russia’s banking and energy sectors if Moscow does not accept the ceasefire.

Putin has not agreed to the ceasefire proposal, though he suggested a “lasting peace” could be negotiated during the Istanbul talks. Russia has consistently rejected calls for an unconditional ceasefire in the full-scale war against Ukraine.

Kyiv has not yet responded to Putin’s comments.

Most Russians ‘don’t care about the war,’ says journalist Ekaterina Barabash after escaping Russia

In early May, 64-year-old film critic and journalist Ekaterina Barabash made international headlines when it was revealed that she had pulled off a daring escape from house arrest in Russia and sought political asylum in France. Barabash was put under house arrest in February for posts that she had made criticizing Russia’s war against Ukraine. She was accused of spreading “knowingly false” information about the military on her social media. The Kremlin has intensified its crackdown on dissent

The Kyiv IndependentKate Tsurkan

Russia and Ukraine must come to a ceasefire agreement in order for the U.S. to “move forward” in negotiating an end to the full-scale war, U.S. State Department Spokesperson Tammy Bruce said on May 10.

Bruce’s comments come as Ukraine and European allies demand Moscow accept their proposal for an unconditional 30-day ceasefire beginning May 12.

“We’ll judge Russia by actions, not words,” Bruce wrote on X.

“We’ve struck a deal with Ukraine for critical minerals and energy to fund their rebuilding. Now we need concrete proposals from both sides to end the conflict."

In comments aired on NewsNation, Bruce indicated that further U.S. participation in peace negotiations was contingent on a ceasefire agreement.

"(W)e’ve said repeatedly that in order for us to go forward regarding the conflict, there has to be a ceasefire,” she said.  

Russian President Vladimir Putin did not agree to the 30-day ceasefire put forth by Ukraine and Europe — a proposal also backed by the U.S. Instead of extending the three-day truce he declared in honor of Russia’s Victory Day celebrations, Putin on May 11 said Russia wanted to hold direct talks with Ukraine in Istanbul next week.

A comprehensive ceasefire could be negotiated during those talks, which would begin on May 15, he said.

Russia has repeatedly proclaimed its readiness for peace talks while simultaneously pushing for maximalist demands, including the complete annexation of Ukraine’s Donetsk, Luhansk, Zaporizhzhia, and Kherson oblasts and international recognition of its illegal occupation of Crimea.

The Wall Street Journal (WSJ) reported on May 9 that U.S. President Donald Trump is frustrated with his administration’s inability to strike a peace deal and Russia’s obstinate stance in negotiations.

According to a joint statement released by Ukraine, the U.K., France, Germany, and Poland on May 10, the U.S. will join their coalition in imposing additional sanctions against Russia if the Kremlin rejects the latest ceasefire proposal.

Putin rejects ceasefire, calls on Ukraine to begin direct talks in Istanbul next week as Victory Day ‘truce’ ends

“Russia is ready for negotiations without any preconditions,” Putin claimed in an address marking the end of the three-day Victory Day ceasefire. He invited Ukraine to begin talks in Istanbul on May 15.

The Kyiv IndependentAbbey Fenbert

U.S. President Donald Trump’s Special Envoy for the Middle East, Steve Witkoff, relied on translators from the Kremlin in his meetings with Russian President Vladimir Putin, NBC News reported on May 10, citing a U.S. official and two Western officials with knowledge of the talks.

Witkoff, who has emerged as Trump’s de facto personal envoy to Russian President Vladimir Putin, has met with the Russian president several times in recent months. His most recent visit took place in Moscow on April 26, the day after a mass missile attack killed 12 people in Kyiv.

Witkoff — a real estate tycoon who does not speak Russian — did not employ his own interpreter during these meetings, officials told NBC News. The decision represented a breach of typical protocols and rendered him dependent on Kremlin-provided translators.

“If they speak to each other in Russian, he doesn’t know what they are saying,” one Western official said.

Michael McFaul, former U.S. ambassador to Russia, called Witkoff’s refusal to use his own interpreter “a very bad idea."

“I speak Russian and have listened to Kremlin interpreters and U.S. interpreters at the same meeting, and the language is never the same,” McFaul told NBC News via email.

Witkoff’s conduct in high-profile negotiations has been previously called into question. The New York Post reported on April 30 that his approach caused concern among White House officials, with sources citing his use of Kremlin translators as one problematic choice.  

One source described Witkoff as a “nice guy, but a bumbling f***ing idiot."

In a statement provided to NBC NEws, White House Deputy Press Secretary Anna Kelly said that Witkoff “abides by all security protocols in coordination with the State Department."

U.S. President Donald Trump has increasingly expressed frustration with his inability to secure a ceasefire in Russia’s war against Ukraine. While his administration has sought warmer ties with Moscow, Trump backed Ukraine and Europe’s proposal for a 30-day unconditional ceasefire beginning March 12 and said he would impose tougher sanctions against Russia if Putin refused.

Putin did not agree to the proposal. In remarks on May 11, he instead invited Ukraine to begin direct negotiations in Istanbul on May 15. Russia has consistently refused to accept an unconditional ceasefire in its full-scale war against Ukraine.

Most Russians ‘don’t care about the war,’ says journalist Ekaterina Barabash after escaping Russia

In early May, 64-year-old film critic and journalist Ekaterina Barabash made international headlines when it was revealed that she had pulled off a daring escape from house arrest in Russia and sought political asylum in France. Barabash was put under house arrest in February for posts that she had made criticizing Russia’s war against Ukraine. She was accused of spreading “knowingly false” information about the military on her social media. The Kremlin has intensified its crackdown on dissent

The Kyiv IndependentKate Tsurkan

President Volodymyr Zelensky and the leaders of the United Kingdom, France, Germany, and Poland agreed on May 10 to impose additional sanctions against Russia if the Kremlin does not accept their proposal for an unconditional 30-day ceasefire.

U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer, French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, and Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk met with Zelensky in Kyiv on May 10. The leaders demanded Russia agree to an unconditional ceasefire of 30 days beginning May 12.

"(The nations) agreed that if Russia refuses a full and unconditional ceasefire, stronger sanctions should be applied to its banking and energy sectors, targeting fossil fuels, oil, and the shadow fleet," the five leaders said in a joint statement.

“They agreed to pass a strong 17th EU sanctions package and to coordinate it with sanctions imposed by the United Kingdom and Norway, as well as by the United States."

The statement also promises continued cooperation on the “effective use of frozen Russian assets” and further support for Ukraine’s military and defense industry.

The European proposal for the 30-day ceasefire is backed by the United States, which first called for a complete month-long truce between Russia and Ukraine in March. Kyiv at the time agreed to the plan, but Russia refused to accept an unconditional ceasefire and insisted Ukraine first give up all foreign military aid.

"(A)n unconditional ceasefire by definition cannot be subject to any conditions,” the joint statement on May 10 said.

“If Russia calls for such conditions, this can only be considered as an effort to prolong the war and undermine diplomacy."

Shortly after Ukraine and its European allies demanded Russia accept the ceasefire agreement, Russian President Vladimir Putin delivered a late-night address marking the end of Moscow’s short-lived Victory Day truce.

Putin did not agree to the 30-day ceasefire and instead invited Ukraine to engage in direct talks with Russia in Istanbul beginning May 15. He also expressed annoyance at “ultimatums” from European states.

Kurt Volker, a former U.S. special representative for Ukraine, said on May 9 that he believes Putin is not interested in a peace deal, but may agree to a ceasefire later in the fall if Ukraine’s allies succeed in imposing tougher sanctions on Russian gas, oil, and financial transactions.

U.S. President Donald Trump on May 8 said the U.S. would join partners in imposing “further sanctions” if Russia does not agree to an unconditional ceasefire.

Speaking at a press conference in Kyiv on May 10, President Volodymyr Zelensky rebuked the idea of establishing a demilitarized zone in the war with Russia.

Zelensky said that the idea of a demilitarized zone is “dead” and emphasized the importance of first securing a ceasefire, European Pravda reported.

The idea of a demilitarized zone as a potential solution to Russia’s war in Ukraine was first floated by United States special envoy for Ukraine Keith Kellogg. During a Fox News interview on May 7, Kellogg said that Kyiv had proposed creating a demilitarized zone jointly controlled by Ukraine and Russia.

Kellogg described the proposal as a buffer zone with both sides pulling back 15 kilometers, creating a 30-kilometer area monitored by observers from third countries.

At the press conference, Zelensky suggested that Ukraine did not propose creating a demilitarized zone, contradicting Kellogg’s statements.

“The question of the demilitarized zone, the disengagement of troops, I heard about it in the media and not only in the media, from many different people, from many intelligence agencies. Officially, Ukraine did not receive anything like that. But… everyone is looking for opportunities to conduct experiments on us,” Zelensky said.

Zelensky also commented on the complexities of the frontline situation and logistical challenges of a demilitarized zone.

“The issue of a demilitarized zone of 15 km in both directions - and why 15? And from which line will we count, from the border, from which contact line… Even if we talk about 15 km, what will we do with Kherson? This means that there will be no our troops in Kherson. If there will be no our troops in Kherson - we will not have Kherson,” the president said.

According to Zelensky, establishing a demilitarized zone would jeopardize Kyiv’s control of key Ukrainian cities.

“If… we agree to a buffer zone and withdraw 15 kilometers from cities like Kherson, Kharkiv, and Sumy, everyone will have what seems to be peace, but the war will continue in them, because artillery will fly over them. Therefore, it is premature to talk about this today and the idea is currently dead,” Zelensky said.

At the same press conference in Kyiv, Ukraine and its European allies demanded that Russia agree to an unconditional 30-day ceasefire starting on May 12. However, the Kremlin said that it will reject a ceasefire for as long as Ukraine receives Western weapons.

Zelensky, European leaders hold ‘productive’ call with Trump about peace talks

“Ukraine and all allies are ready for a complete unconditional ceasefire on land, in the air, and at sea for at least 30 days, starting as early as Monday,” Ukraine’s Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha wrote.

The Kyiv IndependentThe Kyiv Independent news desk

Kremlin's press secretary, Dmitry Peskov, says Russia already knows what to do in response to economic sanctions. According to Peskov, the Russian government shouldn't be frightened by new sanctions, as it has grown accustomed to them since 2014.

In an interview with the Russian media, he mentioned that Russia is prepared for the implications of additional economic restrictions. "Therefore, trying to intimidate us with sanctions is futile," Peskov commented in response to Britain's new economic measures against Russia, outlining 150 trade restrictions.

On May 10, a meeting of the "Coalition of the Willing" took place in Kyiv, attended by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, and Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk. Following their deliberations, the leaders conducted a phone call with US President Donald Trump, after which they announced a 30-day cease-fire starting Monday, May 12. Prior to the meeting, Merz warned that if Russia does not concede to the West’s peace initiatives, the EU and the US would intensify sanctions and increase support to Ukraine. Trump has reportedly shown support for these measures.

After spending about 3-4 months under constant Russian attacks, Jattashankar got used to it.

“I was mentally prepared when they [Russians] launched drones and ballistic missiles… You will see the drones here and there,” he said.

Jattashankar Sinha, born and raised in Ayodhya, India, lived in Ukraine for a year during the full-scale Russian invasion.

But as the war raged on, he decided to go back to his home country. Fleeing one war, Jattashankar stumbled upon escalation in his native land: new attacks between two long-standing nuclear-armed adversaries: India and Pakistan.

Today, Pakistan launched yet another attack on India. Now, news is breaking over the last few hours about how the two countries agreed to an immediate, but tenuous, ceasefire.

The recent escalation of the conflict between India and Pakistan was not merely a localized dispute. It represents a global threat as both nations possess nuclear capabilities and are standing on the brink of a full-scale war.

The conflict poses a risk to the arms supply chains to Ukraine. Although both countries officially maintain neutrality, their weapons indirectly end up on the battlefield in Ukraine. At a time when every source of military support is vital, Kyiv risks losing access to additional arms needed for its defense.

As the whole world was anxiously monitoring the escalation between two nuke-armed long-time rivals, the unpredictable and lightning-fast ceasefire calls into question the full resolution of the conflict and still does not provide clarity on the onset of stability in the South Asian region.

The Indian expat community in Ukraine remains significant despite the government’s ambiguous stance on Russia’s invasion. There are about 18,000 Indian students enrolled in universities in Kyiv, primarily pursuing degrees in medicine and engineering.

“Living and studying medicine in a war-torn Ukraine taught me resilience in the face of fear, unpredictability, and loss. I learned how to keep calm under pressure, to adapt quickly, and to stay focused on saving lives even when sirens were blaring outside. That experience prepared me mentally for what’s happening now in my own country, ” Jattashankar said.

Dr. Jattashankar Sinha is from Ayodhya, India. He came to Ukraine in 2017 to pursue a medical degree at the National Bohomolets University in Kyiv, as he hadn’t qualified for the entry exam in India. Several students from India consider Ukraine an option for education, as universities are cheaper here.

In Ukraine, medical education costs from $700 to $1,800 per year. In India, prices average $1,600 up to as much as $20,500 per year.

“Ukraine is in my list of favorite countries. It is so beautiful. Especially the West[ern] part of Ukraine,” Jattashankar said.

After the start of the full-scale invasion, Jatashankar went home to India, before returning in 2023 to spend another year in Ukraine.

Over the last couple of weeks, he was living with another conflict being at his doorstep. Last month, a group of militants opened fire on tourists in the Kashmir town of Pahalgam, killing at least 26 people. In response, India attacked Pakistan on May 7, launching the so-called Operation Sindoor. Pakistan called the aggression an “act of war” and retaliated.

Today, Pakistan struck Indian military targets as part of its “Operation Bunyan Marsus” against India, which India called a “blatant escalation”. India's Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri announced Pakistani attacks on civilians and infrastructure and denied Pakistan's claims that India's critical infrastructure had been hit.

“After the brutal Pahalgam attack, where so many innocent people, mostly tourists, lost their lives, emotions were already running high.... But seeing things escalate further missile strikes, civilian areas being threatened brings a sense of fear and frustration… No one wants more lives lost on either side of the border. We have seen enough pain already,” Jattashankar shared today with The Counteroffensive.

President Trump claimed that the U.S. mediated the ceasefire, but sources on both sides quickly poured cold water on that notion.

Officials from both India and Pakistan confirmed the ceasefire had been reached, but said that diplomats from three dozen countries were involved in the agreement. An Indian source noted that the ceasefire deal was negotiated directly between India and Pakistan, despite Trump’s announcement that the U.S. had mediated the talks.

India’s Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri stated that military actions on the ground and firing between countries will stop at 5 pm local time. The two nations will speak again on May 12. The deescalation is already moving forward, and Pakistan announced it would reopen its airspace to all commercial and military flights.

Indian defense officials held a news conference in New Delhi to confirm the agreement but added they would remain alert to defend their country if necessary.

Pakistan and India have been in conflict for 78 years over Kashmir, a region that lies between the two nations. The dispute began in 1947, after the partition of British India, which led to the creation of two independent states: a predominantly Hindu India and a predominantly Muslim Pakistan.

At the time, the ruler of Kashmir hesitated to join either country as the state had both Hindu and Muslim populations. The indecision ignited a territorial conflict that has been growing ever since.

Both countries officially claim the entire territory of Kashmir. A portion of it is also under Chinese control, although China has not claimed additional territory. China occupied the area in 1962 and has maintained control ever since. Prior to that, it was controlled by India, which continues to seek the territory back.

Jattashankar and his family live far from the conflict's epicenter and have remained calm. He said that he has “trust” in his army.

Ukraine has followed India’s footsteps and decided to remain neutral in the conflict between India and Pakistan, urging a “diplomatic solution to all contentious issues.”

“As an Indian, I view our country's approach to the Russia-Ukraine war as rooted in strategic autonomy. India has long followed a policy of non-alignment, and in today's multipolar world, that has evolved into maintaining strong relations with multiple powers without being drawn into blocs,” said Jattashankar.

Both Pakistan and India unofficially supply ammunition to the Ukrainian army.

Indian artillery ammunition may have reached Ukraine’s frontlines through European suppliers, such as Italy and the Czech Republic. These countries are leading the initiative to supply artillery shells to Kyiv from countries outside the European Union.

India officially denies the presence of its weapons in Ukraine. However, Russia, a close ally of India, has demanded that Delhi stop supplying weapons to Ukraine.

India probably faces the ongoing war in Ukraine and the rearmament of Europe as an opportunity to develop its defense sector.

Meanwhile, India is continuing to increase its cooperation with Russia. In 2024, it became Russia’s second-largest oil importer. The Russian military-industrial complex and the state’s budget depend on revenues from energy sales, as they account for 30 percent of government revenues.

This year, Russia and India signed their largest-ever oil supply agreement. Under this agreement, Moscow will supply Delhi nearly 500,000 barrels of crude oil daily for 10 years. Moreover, India remains the largest recipient of Russian arms exports, including the S-400 missile defense system.

“Prime Minister Modi's neutral stance, including his calls for diplomacy and dialogue, reflects India’s emphasis on peace and pragmatic engagement, especially given our deep economic and defense ties with both Russia and the West,” Jattashankar told The Counteroffensive. “Neutrality allows India to be a potential mediator and maintain its own interests without being entangled in distant wars. Our priorities lie in development, regional stability, and preserving strategic independence.”

The situation from the Pakistan side is even more prominent. After having reportedly supplied Ukraine and Israel with ammunition for the past years, it is now struggling with a shortage of artillery as conflict with India looms as a possibility.

In August 2022, journalists spotted a British Air Force plane making 12 trips between a military base in Pakistan and an international airport in Romania. It was allegedly transporting artillery shells of Pakistani origin to Ukraine.

The Counteroffensive asked the State Customs Service of Ukraine about the import of weapons of Indian and Pakistani origin. We have not received a response.

While Ukraine is worried about the cessation of critical ammunition, an even bigger problem is brewing in the world: the possibility of a full-scale war between two nuclear countries rose over the last weeks and the ground of ceasefire agreement is still not clear.

“Personally, I didn't get flashbacks [of Russia’s war in Ukraine] from our own regional tensions when the war escalated, but it did highlight how quickly conflicts can escalate and the importance of diplomacy, especially in nuclear-armed regions like ours,” Jattashankar noted.

Even though Jattashankar's family is far from the conflict, his friend and mentor at a university in India is witnessing a different reality.

Dr. Paras Singh Jamwal was born and raised in Jammu, Kashmir. Paras’ parents are safe after the recent air combat in their native region, but Paras remembers the phone conversation with them that night: the explosions were thunderous.

“Last night I was talking to my parents. Whole night sirens were blowing, and also the whole night there were all bombarding happening, so there was a lot of noise around my home”, Paras said after the recent battle between India and Pakistan.

Kashmir and its citizens have long been prepared for a war scenario, and Paras said he witnessed several confrontations as a child.

“Growing up in a place where life was always under threat from terrorism was never easy. The constant fear became a part of everyday life…Those memories stay and they are not good for mental health,” said Paras.

As we talked to Jattashankar about today’s attacks, he said that Paras’ family who lives in Jammu is safe and okay.

It is not the first time in recent years that a full-scale war has loomed between the two nations. In 2019, a car packed with explosives rammed into a bus carrying Indian police officers, killing 40. In response, India launched an airstrike on a suspected militant camp in Pakistan, triggering a new wave of clashes.

“As for nuclear rhetoric, yes, I believe any normalization of nuclear threats, however subtle, is extremely dangerous. If powerful nations begin to use nuclear blackmail more openly, it sets a troubling precedent. It could embolden others to consider such tactics, which would erode global norms and increase the risk of catastrophic miscalculations,” said Jattashankar.

India has about 180 nuclear warheads in its stockpile, while it is estimated that Pakistan has approximately the same number. Neither of the countries have officially disclosed the number of nuclear weapons they possess.

“My hopes for the future are that everything will settle down, because war is never a good thing…because in the end, people have to suffer,” said Paras, who plans to return to his native Jammu after completing his studies. “Let’s hope for humanity and let’s be human. Always.”

The world has entered a new stage of uncertainty, where large-scale war is no longer off the table. Since Russia’s illegal annexation of Crimea more than a decade ago, the costs of conflict seem to have been diminished.

And in a world where war is not deterred, one miscalculation can turn into a global conflagration.

NEWS OF THE DAY:

INDIA AND PAKISTAN AGREE ON TRUCE: India and Pakistan have confirmed a ceasefire agreement following weeks of escalating clashes, missile exchanges, and drone strikes along their shared border over the long-disputed Kashmir region.

President Trump claimed that the U.S. was behind the ceasefire on his Truth Social platform Saturday. Although some diplomatic figures have mentioned that role played by the State Department, reporting is emerging that dozens of countries were involved — and that the deal ultimately came as a result of direct negotiations between the parties.

ALLIES PLAN SANCTIONS AGAINST RUSSIA: The U.S., the EU, and the U.K. are threatening additional sanctions against Russia if it refuses to accept a U.S.-led proposal for a 30-day ceasefire with Ukraine.

The warnings come as European leaders visit President Zelenskyy in Kyiv to demonstrate solidarity with Ukraine, after the leaders of China and Brazil traveled to Russia this week to attend Moscow’s Victory Day parade.

Ukraine has agreed to the proposed 30-day ceasefire, but President Putin has so far declined to support it. Kremlin press secretary Dmitry Peskov said Western delivery of arms to Ukraine should stop before agreeing to a ceasefire.

EU, UKRAINE ENDORSE WAR CRIMES TRIBUNAL: Ukraine and 35 European countries have endorsed the establishment of a special tribunal to prosecute Russia for its "crimes of aggression" against Ukraine.

“This means no one will escape accountability for the crimes committed—not even the [Russian] leaders who made the decision to send troops here to commit war crimes and atrocities we have witnessed,” said Kaja Kallas, the EU’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs.

The newly proposed tribunal would have the authority to pursue Russia over its decision to invade Ukraine, though it could only arrest Putin once he leaves office, due to the immunity granted to sitting presidents, prime ministers, and foreign ministers.

DOG OF WAR:

Today’s Dog of War is this doggie Nastia met in Ukraine’s western city of Chernivtsi, who was relaxing in a distinguished pose by the side of the street.

Stay safe out there.

Best,
Clara

India and Pakistan have agreed to “a full and immediate ceasefire,” U.S. President Donald Trump wrote on Truth Social on May 10.

“Congratulations to both countries on using common Sense and great intelligence. Thank you for your attention to this matter!” Trump wrote.

The announcement follows mounting fears that the two nuclear-armed countries were on the brink of engaging in another full-scale war. The latest escalation in tensions between the two nations began in April.

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said in a post on X that he and U.S. Vice President JD Vance had been in contact with both sides over the past 48 hours in a bid to halt the fighting.

India confirmed that a ceasefire had been agreed upon, with the Foreign Ministry spokesperson briefly saying during a press conference on May 10, “It was agreed between them that both sides would stop all fighting and military action on land and in the air and sea with effect from 17:00 Indian standard time today."

Pakistan also confirmed the news, with Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar writing on X on May 10 that his country “has always strived for peace and security in the region, without compromising on its sovereignty and territorial integrity."

The news of a ceasefire between India and Pakistan comes amid reports that Trump is increasingly frustrated behind the scenes that he hasn’t been able to achieve lasting peace deals between Russia and Ukraine or Israel and Palestine.

Trump on May 8 called for an unconditional 30-day ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine, warning that Washington and its allies would impose further sanctions on Moscow if the truce were violated.

Zelensky, European leaders hold ‘productive’ call with Trump about peace talks

“Ukraine and all allies are ready for a complete unconditional ceasefire on land, in the air, and at sea for at least 30 days, starting as early as Monday,” Ukraine’s Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha wrote.

The Kyiv IndependentThe Kyiv Independent news desk