MOSCOW / KYIV - Russian President Vladimir Putin proposed on Sunday the resumption of direct negotiations with Ukraine on May 15 in Istanbul.

In a statement to journalists at the Kremlin, Putin said Russia remains committed to serious negotiations with Ukraine to address the root causes of the ongoing conflict and lay the groundwork for a lasting and stable peace.

He noted that the possibility of a ceasefire agreement could be discussed during the proposed negotiations, but stressed that any such ceasefire must be genuine and observed by both parties.

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Also on Sunday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said that his country is prepared to resume direct negotiations with Russia if Moscow accepts a Kyiv-proposed ceasefire.

"We expect Russia to confirm a ceasefire -- full, lasting and reliable -- starting tomorrow, May 12th, and Ukraine is ready to meet (it)," Zelensky posted on social media platform X.

He welcomed Russia's proposal to resume talks as a "positive sign."

On Saturday, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha said that Kyiv is ready for a "full and unconditional" 30-day ceasefire with Russia starting Monday.