Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy invited Russian President Vladimir Putin for direct peace talks in Turkey on May 15, following Trump’s public call for negotiations. This marks the first proposed face-to-face meeting since 2019. European leaders and Ukraine demand a 30-day ceasefire before any talks, while Putin countered with an offer for immediate discussions without preconditions. Trump urged Zelenskiy to meet Putin without delay. Kyiv insists on a ceasefire starting Monday but remains open to diplomacy. Russia’s conditions include recognition of territorial control and Ukraine’s neutrality—terms Kyiv equates with surrender. Tensions persist amid fears of a new Russian air offensive.
INDIAN PM ADDRESSES NATION FOR THE FIRST TIME POST-STRIKE
In his first address after Operation Sindoor, Prime Minister Narendra Modi struck a bold and assertive tone, praising India’s armed forces and affirming a firm stance against terrorism. Referring to the Pahalgam terror attack as a “cowardly act,” Modi declared that India’s response reflects the new doctrine of proactive defence. He emphasised unity, national pride, and the importance of internal resilience, stating, “This is a new India that does not tolerate terror, but answers in kind.” Modi also called for national solidarity and urged citizens to remain vigilant, signalling that peace would be pursued, but never at the cost of security.
INDIA STRIKES, PEACE RETURNS BRIEFLY
Between May 7 and 10, the Indian Army conducted precision strikes on nine terror hubs across the Line of Control, killing 100 terrorists, including Pulwama attackers and IC-814 hijackers. High-value targets such as Yusuf Azhar, Abdul Malik Rauf, and Mudasir Ahmed were eliminated. The Army claims 35–40 Pakistani soldiers were also killed, achieving “total surprise.” A ceasefire came into effect soon after, with calm returning to border villages in Kashmir, Punjab, and Rajasthan. Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump lauded the ceasefire, expressing willingness to mediate on Kashmir and expand trade with both nations.
POPE LEO APPEALS FOR PEACE
In his first Sunday address from St Peter’s Basilica, Pope Leo XIV passionately called for an end to global conflicts, urging world leaders to pursue peace. The new pontiff appealed for a ceasefire in Gaza, a lasting resolution in Ukraine, and welcomed the tentative peace deal between India and Pakistan. Deeply moved by humanitarian crises, he stressed the urgent need for aid, prisoner release, and unity. Formerly Bishop Robert Prevost of Chicago, the 69-year-old becomes the first American pope, continuing his predecessor’s legacy of compassion, justice, and inclusivity. His formal inauguration is scheduled for 18 May at the Vatican.
