In a surprising shift, Russian President Vladimir Putin has indicated a willingness to engage in direct peace talks with Ukraine. This development comes as U.S. pressure for a resolution continues to build, with reports suggesting that both nations are signaling openness to bilateral discussions. While Putin has called for negotiations, he also warned against rushing the process, emphasizing that obstacles need to be removed for talks to progress. Additionally, amidst ongoing strikes and a recent mass drone attack on Odesa, calls for a ceasefire are becoming more prominent, with hopes that both sides can come to an agreement. The Kremlin has responded to U.S. demands for a swift peace deal, suggesting that while discussions are welcome, immediate results may not be feasible.