In recent developments concerning the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, Russian President Vladimir Putin has responded negatively to ultimatums from European leaders, a stance he has historically maintained. During a late-night statement at the Kremlin, Putin criticized European powers for their "boorish manner" and reliance on ultimatums when engaging with Russia. Although he didn't specify the details, his remarks were clearly aimed at the ultimatum issued by European leaders in Kyiv, which demanded that Russia agree to an unconditional 30-day ceasefire starting Monday, or face increased sanctions and military support for Ukraine. The ultimatum was supported by prominent figures such as Sir Keir Starmer, who stated that this was an opportunity for Putin to demonstrate his commitment to peace. However, the Kremlin's response has been more complex, with Putin proposing direct talks with Ukraine in Istanbul the following Thursday, but notably, without agreeing to an immediate ceasefire. This raises questions about the seriousness of the Kremlin's peace initiative and whether it might be a strategy to buy time and prolong the war. Additionally, there is speculation that this proposal could be an attempt by Moscow to create divisions within the Western coalition supporting Ukraine. The central question remains whether Vladimir Putin genuinely desires peace. While he professes a commitment to peace, it is evident that he seeks it on Russia's terms. Moscow perceives little benefit from a 30-day unconditional ceasefire, particularly as it believes it currently has the upper hand on the battlefield in Ukraine. However, Russia is also wary of being perceived as an obstacle to peace. The Kremlin is eager to maintain positive relations with the Trump administration in the United States, hoping that a continued rapprochement will lead to swift sanctions relief and an economic boost. By proposing direct talks in Istanbul, Putin is signaling to the White House his willingness to engage in peace efforts, though without committing to a ceasefire. This suggests that Russia is likely to continue its military operations in Ukraine, with the aim of seizing more territory. Putin's vague mention of the possibility that the Istanbul talks might result in new ceasefires is likely to be met with skepticism in Kyiv. It's crucial to remember that it was President Putin who initiated the full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, a move widely interpreted as an effort to bring Ukraine back under Moscow's influence. At the time, he refrained from calling it a war, instead describing Russia's actions as a "special military operation." Yet, in his recent statement, Putin acknowledged ongoing fighting and war, while emphasizing Russia's offer to resume previously interrupted talks, which he claims were not halted by Russia. Putin's offer of direct talks in Istanbul may also be a strategic move to create discord between the US administration and European leaders. Following Putin's announcement, President Trump referred to it as a "potentially great day for Russia and Ukraine" in a social media post, expressing his intent to work with both sides to ensure the talks happen. Meanwhile, French President Emmanuel Macron described Putin's proposal as a "first step, but not enough," emphasizing that an unconditional ceasefire should precede negotiations. Putin's announcement was made during a late-night statement inside the Kremlin, where a small group of foreign journalists, including myself, joined Russian reporters for what was supposed to be a press conference. Despite waiting several hours, the Russian president did not take any questions, leaving the hall after delivering his statement. This approach underscores the controlled and calculated nature of Putin's communication strategy regarding the conflict in Ukraine.