Putin 'ready to restart peace talks' as his attacks continue

VLADIMIR Putin claims that he is willing to restart direct talks with Ukraine to try to broker a ceasefire.

- By Ciaran McGrath

But fresh Russian missile and drone attacks on the country cast fresh doubt on his commitment to any meaningful halt to hostilities.

President Putin said Russia has “always looked positively on any peace initiatives”. He added: “We hope representatives of the Kyiv regime will feel the same way.”

Kremlin official Dmitry Peskov said his comments indicated a will-ingness to engage in direct talks about not striking civilian targets.

President Volodymyr Zelensky did not respond directly but stated Ukraine was “ready for any conver-sation” which would ensure the safety of civilians.