Responding to a journalist’s question on May 12 regarding Russia’s call for resumed talks, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Pham Thu Hang stated: “We welcome President Vladimir Putin’s proposal made on May 11 to resume direct negotiations with Ukraine.”

She reaffirmed Vietnam’s consistent stance in supporting the peaceful settlement of disputes through dialogue, in accordance with international law and the United Nations Charter.

“Any solution should consider the legitimate interests of all parties involved, aiming to ensure peace, stability, cooperation, and development in the region and globally,” she added.

President Putin proposed that the direct negotiations, aimed at ending over three years of conflict, be held on May 15 in Istanbul, Turkey. He also stated that during such talks, both sides may agree on new solutions regarding a ceasefire and a potential end to hostilities - if supported by both Moscow and Kyiv. He emphasized that the decision now lies with the Ukrainian authorities and their international backers.

In response, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky reiterated that Kyiv expects a full and lasting ceasefire from Russia starting May 12, calling it a prerequisite for any peace talks to move forward.

Tran Thuong