Russia has called for direct negotiations with Ukraine in Istanbul, but Ukraine’s European allies say Putin needs to agree to a ceasefire first.

The spokesperson for the European Commission, Paula Pinho, suggested that Vladimir Putin might be surprised by Volodymyr Zelensky's readiness to meet in person. This comment came in the context of the Russian leader's refusal to agree to an immediate ceasefire and engage in talks with the Ukrainian president.

The European Commission is considering imposing additional sanctions on Russia. Following Russia's refusal to agree to a ceasefire, the foreign ministers of France and Germany advocated for increased pressure through new sanctions.

Russian President Vladimir Putin lashed out at Western leaders for imposing economic sanctions on the country due to the war in Ukraine. Putin on May 13 described Western leaders as 'idiots'. Putin also said that Russia will allow Western companies that left its market back only if it is beneficial for the country.

They had warned Moscow that if Russia didn't agree to an unconditional 30-day ceasefire from Monday, there will be more sanctions against Russia and more military assistance for Ukraine.On Saturday, Sir Keir Starmer said that "if he [Putin] is serious about peace,

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov accused European countries of taking a “pro-war” stance, saying their approach to the conflict in Ukraine was aimed at prolonging the war. Peskov criticized Europe’s position as “unbalanced,

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz is ready to call Russian dictator Vladimir Putin regarding ending the war in Ukraine, according to his interview with ZDF. Merz noted that he is prepared to take such a step,

Putin's top propagandist Vladimir Solovyov entered a bizarre rant claiming that 'Nazi Europe' have 'blood on their heads' - before threatening a repeat of WW2. It is believed he is angry about getting