A major diplomatic development has emerged as Russian President Vladimir Putin’s aide, Yuri Ushakov, announced that Russia is ready for direct, no-preconditions peace talks with Ukraine in Istanbul starting May 15. Putin’s proposal, delivered in a late-night televised address, calls for immediate negotiations without preconditions, presenting it as an “olive branch” to Kyiv. However, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has responded cautiously, insisting that a full and reliable ceasefire must be established before any direct talks can take place. Watch for more