The so-called "memorandum" containing proposals for a ceasefire and an end to the war, which Russia handed over to Ukraine on 2 June, also contains ultimatums regarding the recognition of the Russian occupation of Ukrainian territories.

Vladimir Medinsky, the head of the Russian delegation at the talks in Istanbul, has said that Russia is offering Kyiv a temporary ceasefire on certain fronts.

The negotiations between the Ukrainian and Russian delegations, which took place on Monday 2 June in Istanbul, have concluded.

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha has called for a strong response to a statement by Russia’s UN Ambassador Vasily Nebenzya, who has declared that Moscow intends to fight "as long as necessary".

A Prague court has handed a suspended sentence to teacher Martina Bednářová for denying Russian war crimes in Ukraine.

The Ministry of Defence of the Netherlands has announced the delivery of the last batch of 24 F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has stated that Moscow will not participate in negotiations with Ukraine at the Vatican.

Following his call with Russian ruler Vladimir Putin on 19 May, US President Donald Trump has announced that Ukraine and Russia will immediately start talks on a ceasefire.

US Vice President JD Vance, commenting on the upcoming telephone conversation between the leaders of the United States and Russia, has raised the possibility of Washington withdrawing from the negotiation process if it does not yield results.

Turkish Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan has welcomed the direct talks between Ukraine and Russia held in Istanbul on 16 May.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz has welcomed the first direct talks between Ukraine and Russia since 2022 in Istanbul on Friday 16 May.

Ukraine will send a delegation led by Defence Minister Rustem Umierov to Istanbul for talks with the Russians on 15 May.

Norwegian Defence Minister Tore O. Sandvik has confirmed that the delivery of the F-16 fighter jets pledged to Ukraine will be completed in 2025.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov will not take part in potential talks with Ukraine that may take place in Türkiye on 15 May.

German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius has said he does not believe Russia will agree to a ceasefire and emphasised Europe’s determination to ramp up pressure on Moscow.