Putin 'prevaricating' over peace talks with Ukraine, Lammy says

Speaking in the House of Commons, Conservative MP and former Foreign Secretary James Cleverly asked Lammy what steps the UK is taking to ensure that Donald Trump remains "committed to defending territorial integrity" and that the White House understands allowing Putin to "thrive" in Ukraine would encourage future invasions.

"(Mr. Cleverly) will have seen that the Prime Minister was with President Zelenskyy and other European partners, he will have noted that they engaged with President Trump" Lammy responded.

He noted that the UK welcomes the desire to achieve a lasting peace in Ukraine, but participation in such talks requires adherence to a ceasefire.

"And it is Putin that is prevaricating, it is Putin that is obfuscating, and we must call that out with our long experience of scrutinizing that particular individual," the UK Foreign Secretary emphasized.

Istanbul talks

In recent days, Russian President Vladimir Putin refused to support the proposal from Ukraine, the United States, and the Coalition of the Willing for a ceasefire scheduled for May 12.

At the same time, he expressed a desire to resume peace talks in Istanbul, which were suspended in 2022. These talks are set to take place on May 15.

In response, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy confirmed Ukraine's readiness for dialogue but emphasized that negotiations are only possible if Russia agrees to a ceasefire starting May 12.

Later, Zelenskyy stated that he wanted direct talks with Putin immediately.

However, it remains unclear who will represent Russia — Putin has yet to respond to Zelenskyy's proposal.

Mykhailo Podolyak, Presidential Office adviser, stressed that Zelenskyy is ready for negotiations in Istanbul only with Putin. He will not engage in dialogue with other Russian representatives.