Editor’s note: This story is being updated.
Russian President Vladimir Putin’s proposal for a ceasefire on Victory Day is the beginning of direct talks with Kyiv, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said on April 29 during a press briefing.
“Our proposal, which President Putin voiced, is the start of direct negotiations, without preconditions. In this situation, a ceasefire (for 30 days) is seen as a precondition,” Lavrov said.
It is not clear if Lavrov meant direct negotiations would begin at the time of the ceasefire, or if Putin’s announcement of it marked their commencement.
Putin claimed Russian forces would cease all hostilities from May 8 until midnight on May 11 to mark the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II in Europe.
Ukraine retorted by calling for a full and unconditional ceasefire, a proposal that Moscow continues to reject.
Ukrainian officials have not yet commented on Lavrov’s statement.
