Slovenian Prime Minister Robert Golob has extended an invitation to host direct peace talks between Russia and Ukraine on Slovenian soil. The proposal comes as international efforts intensify to find a resolution to the ongoing conflict that has gripped Eastern Europe for over three years. Zelenskyy welcomes Putin’s call for peace talks as a good sign, adding momentum to growing international calls for diplomacy.
According to TASS, Prime Minister Golob emphasized Slovenia’s longstanding commitment to peace since gaining independence in 1991. “Slovenia would be honored if both sides accepted the invitation to hold peace talks in Slovenia,” he stated, highlighting the nation’s dedication to fostering dialogue and reconciliation.
Drawing parallels to historical diplomatic events, Golob referenced the 2001 meeting between Russian President Vladimir Putin and US President George W. Bush, which took place in Slovenia. He suggested that hosting the Russia-Ukraine talks could similarly serve as a pivotal moment in international diplomacy.
The Slovenian proposal aligns with recent developments in the ongoing conflict. On May 11, Russian President Vladimir Putin proposed resuming direct negotiations with Ukraine, suggesting a meeting in Istanbul on May 15. Putin asserted that Russia was ready to engage in talks without preconditions, aiming to revive discussions that had stalled since the Istanbul round in 2022.
In response, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed willingness to participate in the proposed talks, contingent upon a full and lasting ceasefire. “We are waiting for a full and lasting ceasefire tomorrow to provide the necessary basis for diplomacy,” Zelenskyy stated, indicating his readiness to meet Putin in Turkey on May 15, according to Pravda.
The international community has shown support for renewed diplomatic efforts. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan confirmed Turkey’s readiness to host the proposed talks in Istanbul, emphasizing the importance of a comprehensive ceasefire to facilitate productive negotiations.
Meanwhile, European leaders, including French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, have called for an unconditional 30-day ceasefire starting May 12. They warned of severe sanctions if Russia fails to comply, underscoring the urgency of halting hostilities to pave the way for meaningful dialogue.
US President Donald Trump also weighed in, urging Ukraine to engage in peace talks with Russia without awaiting a ceasefire. President Putin of Russia doesn’t want to have a Cease Fire Agreement with Ukraine, but rather wants to meet on Thursday, in Turkey, to negotiate a possible end.
Despite the flurry of diplomatic activity, significant challenges remain. Russia’s recent overnight drone attacks on Ukraine, following the rejection of the proposed 30-day ceasefire, have cast doubt on Moscow’s commitment to peace. Over 100 drones were launched in a nighttime assault, exacerbating tensions and undermining trust in the negotiation process.
