Photo: Roberto Monaldo / Keystone Press Agency / Global Look Press
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni called on Russia to agree to a full and unconditional 30-day ceasefire as a signal of readiness for peace. Italy supports Turkey’s efforts to organise peace talks in Istanbul.
In a telephone conversation with Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni expressed hope that Russia would agree to a 30-day ceasefire to facilitate a peaceful settlement of the war in Ukraine. This was reported by the press service of the Italian government.
“Given Turkey’s willingness to host peace talks between Ukraine and Russia in Istanbul, the leaders discussed diplomatic prospects and reaffirmed support for a just and lasting peace in Ukraine,” the statement said.
Maloney thanked Erdogan for his efforts to negotiate a settlement to the conflict and called on Russia to respond positively to the invitation to dialogue by agreeing to an unconditional ceasefire as evidence of its readiness for peace.
On 10 May, Ukraine, along with France, Germany, the UK and Poland, offered Russia a 30-day ceasefire. In case of refusal, sanctions are likely to be tightened.
Putin said he is ready to return to the talks in Istanbul, where they were suspended in 2022. President Zelenskyy expects a ceasefire to begin on 12 May and said he would be waiting for Putin in Turkey on 15 May.
Recep Erdogan assured that Turkey would do everything possible to ensure peace between Ukraine and Russia, including by organising negotiations.
