In a significant development in the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has expressed willingness to meet with Russian President Vladimir Putin for direct peace talks in Turkey. This comes after Putin proposed discussions aimed at ending the war, igniting hopes for a possible resolution. However, Zelensky has firmly stated that any negotiations should begin with a ceasefire, emphasizing the urgent need to halt the bloodshed. The landscape remains tense, as long-range Russian attacks continue amidst ongoing hostilities, and both sides appear deadlocked over next steps. U.S. and European leaders have overwhelmingly rejected proposals for talks without an initial agreement on a truce. Despite these challenges, there is cautious optimism following international calls for dialogue, as Zelensky insists he will only meet with Putin if the conditions of a ceasefire are met. Some analysts consider this a critical juncture in the efforts to resolve the three-year conflict.