Putin open to discussing Zelenskyy’s proposal on civilian infrastructure attacks: Kremlin

Russian President Vladimir Putin has expressed readiness to discuss Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s recent proposal to halt attacks on civilian infrastructure, according to statements from the Kremlin on Tuesday.

This marks the first indication from Putin of a potential direct dialogue with Zelenskyy since Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.

In a televised interview on Russian state media, Putin said Moscow has consistently supported peace initiatives and expressed a hope that Kyiv officials would adopt a similar stance.

Kremlin cites complexity of cease-fire discussions

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said Putin’s remarks signaled a willingness to discuss civilian infrastructure protections directly with Ukraine.

However, he emphasized the complexity of such talks, pointing to the recent failure of an Easter truce that both sides accused each other of violating.

“If we talk about civilian infrastructure facilities, we need to clearly differentiate in what situations these facilities can be military targets and in what situations they cannot,” Peskov told reporters.

He noted that civilian structures could become legitimate targets if they host enemy combatants, indicating that detailed criteria would need to be agreed upon in any potential dialogue.

Ukraine demands clear response from Moscow

Zelenskyy, in a video address, reiterated Ukraine’s willingness to discuss ways to end attacks on civilian areas. He said Kyiv was waiting for a clear response from Moscow and reaffirmed Ukraine’s proposal to avoid targeting civilian infrastructure.

“Nevertheless, Ukraine stands by its offer—at the very least, not to strike civilian infrastructure. And we expect a clear answer from Moscow. We are ready for any conversation on how to ensure this. There is an obvious, simple, and most reliable way: stop missile and long-range drone attacks. That alone would automatically ensure the safety of all civilian infrastructure,” Zelenskyy said.

“A cease-fire—real and lasting—must be the first step toward a secure and enduring peace. Ukrainian representatives—both at the meetings held in Paris and at the meetings scheduled this week in London—will have a primary task regarding an unconditional ceasefire. That must be the starting point. Peace begins in silence,” he concluded.

Now, after Easter, the whole world can clearly see the real issue — the real reason why the hostilities continue. Russia is the source of this war. It is from Moscow that a real order must come for the Russian army to cease fire. And if there is no such firm Russian order for… pic.twitter.com/jS9cTiRQqd

— Volodymyr Zelenskyy / Володимир Зеленський (@ZelenskyyUa) April 21, 2025

The proposal comes amid heightened international pressure on both sides to show progress toward ending the war. U.S. President Donald Trump recently warned that he may halt American mediation efforts if the parties fail to move toward a resolution.

No talks scheduled, legal barriers remain

Despite the Kremlin’s signal of openness, Peskov confirmed that there are no concrete plans for direct talks.

He also noted that any potential contact would require Kyiv to repeal a 2022 decree signed by Zelenskyy that legally bans negotiations with Putin following Russia’s claimed annexation of four partially occupied Ukrainian regions.

“If Ukraine wants to talk, then it should take steps to legally clear the obstacles to such contacts,” Peskov said.

Civilian casualties continue on both sides

The war, now in its third year, continues to cause heavy civilian casualties, predominantly in Ukraine. On April 13, at least 35 people were killed in a Russian missile strike on Sumy.

Ukrainian officials said the strike targeted civilians, while Moscow claimed it hit a meeting of military officers.

Last month, Ukraine agreed in principle on a 30-day cease-fire, but Russia responded with a list of conditions and questions, stalling progress.