Russia's brutal response to the ultimatum

"The language of the ultimatum is unacceptable for Russia, it is not possible to talk to Russia in such a language," he explained in response to a question about the Kremlin's reaction to the fact that Europe could start preparing for additional sanctions against the Russian Federation in the absence of a ceasefire.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has discussed with German Chancellor Friedrich Merz the possibility of blocking the Nord Stream 2 gas pipeline as a "measure" against Russia if Moscow does not agree to a proposed 30-day ceasefire in Ukraine proposed by the West.

"Prior to this warning, we already heard one warning, if you remember. And they were issued in a rather ultimate form," Peskov reminded, as reported by RIA Novosti.

On the night of May 11, Putin spoke with representatives of Russian and foreign media and proposed that Ukraine continue direct negotiations without preconditions in Istanbul on May 15.

• He gave in?

The president emphasized that he does not rule out the possibility of achieving a real ceasefire that will be respected by the Kyiv regime.

Peskov called the proposal of the Russian leader serious, noting that he is talking about the desire to find a peaceful solution.

"In general, we are committed to a serious search for ways to achieve a long-term peaceful solution," he said.

He noted that US President Donald Trump also called on the Ukrainian side to immediately, without any conditions, participate in the proposed meeting.

"In yesterday's telephone conversation, Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan confirmed his readiness to do everything to organize the negotiations," Peskov added.

According to the spokesperson, the goals of the negotiations with Ukraine are to eliminate the root causes of the conflict and ensure Russia's interests.

"This approach, aimed specifically at finding a real diplomatic solution to the Ukrainian crisis, eliminating the causes of the conflict and establishing lasting peace, has met with the understanding and support of the leaders of many countries, including our partners in the CIS, BRICS and other countries," Peskov told reporters.