Russian President Vladimir Putin signaled potential openness to peace talks with Ukraine, his first such indication since the war’s early days. In a Monday state TV appearance, Putin said Moscow has “always looked positively on peace initiatives,” while Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov later clarified this referred to negotiations about halting strikes on civilian targets.

Despite this, Russia launched a wave of fresh attacks within hours. In Zaporizhzhia, a missile hit an apartment block, killing a woman and injuring more than 20, including children. In Kharkiv, a drone strike wounded at least seven people. Additional strikes were reported in Odesa, Sumy, Donetsk, and Kherson.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky condemned the onslaught as “deliberate Russian terror” and renewed calls for a 30-day ceasefire on attacks against civilian infrastructure. He cited the brief Easter truce as proof that temporary restraint is possible and challenged Moscow to respond clearly.

Putin stated that Russia would “analyse” the proposal but questioned whether some targets were purely civilian. He admitted a recent deadly strike in Sumy hit a congress centre, claiming it was hosting an event for Ukrainian troops.

As Russia’s assault continues, Ukrainian officials are set to meet US and European leaders in London to push for an unconditional ceasefire. Western leaders remain wary of Moscow’s intentions, with French officials dismissing the Easter ceasefire as mere propaganda.