President Putin acknowledged Trump’s ceasefire proposals while advocating for lasting peace. He avoided explicitly rejecting the 30-day ceasefire proposed by Ukraine, citing complex variables. Top aide Ushakov characterized the ceasefire as a brief respite for Ukrainian forces, emphasizing the need for substantial discussions to address underlying issues.
On Thursday, Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed gratitude toward President Donald Trump for his efforts to achieve a ceasefire in Ukraine. He emphasized the necessity for a lasting peace rather than a temporary ceasefire. “The idea itself is correct, and we certainly support it,” he articulated during a news conference in Moscow, indicating a desire for discussions with American counterparts regarding the underlying issues of the crisis.
Putin refrained from directly rejecting the recently proposed 30-day ceasefire. He noted the complexities involved, particularly concerning the fate of Ukrainian troops situated in Russia’s Kursk region, which he suggested would be completely encircled shortly. Moreover, he remarked that a ceasefire might primarily benefit Ukraine by providing an opportunity to regroup and rearm.
Further echoing Putin’s sentiments, Yuri Ushakov, a top aide, underscored that this ceasefire proposal could merely serve as a momentary respite for Ukrainian forces. He articulated, “Our position about this is that it’s nothing other than a temporary breathing space for Ukrainian forces and nothing else.” He further elaborated on Russia’s long-term aspirations for peace normalization while expressing concerns regarding superficial peace efforts.
Ushakov noted discussions with U.S. officials, including National Security Advisor Mike Waltz and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, emphasizing that Putin would clarify Moscow’s stance on the ceasefire in an upcoming press conference. Reports indicated that Russia has presented its own conditions for ending hostilities, although these demands have not been confirmed. Previous requests included limiting Ukraine’s NATO aspirations and asserting control over five Ukrainian regions.
Ukraine, following extensive discussions with U.S. officials, agreed to a ceasefire contingent upon the Kremlin’s acceptance of the associated terms. This agreement aimed to facilitate further negotiations on critical topics such as territorial claims and the repatriation of prisoners. Following a surge in Russian military aggression, U.S. military assistance and intelligence sharing resumed after the fruitful talks in Jeddah this week.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy affirmed Ukraine’s commitment to peace and expressed gratitude for the resumption of military aid. He highlighted that Ukraine was prepared for an air and sea ceasefire but welcomed the U.S. proposal for extending it to land. Zelenskyy’s remarks emphasized the ongoing challenges posed by Russian silence regarding the ceasefire, suggesting that continued U.S. pressure might be necessary to bring an end to the conflict.
In summary, President Putin acknowledged Trump’s ceasefire proposals but insisted on the need for a deeper and lasting peace. He did not outright reject the 30-day ceasefire but pointed out various complexities that require discussion. Ushakov echoed similar thoughts, framing the ceasefire as a mere temporary pause for Ukraine. As negotiations progress, the resolution to the conflict remains contingent upon addressing Russia’s demands and ensuring a sustainable peace agreement.
Original Source: www.foxnews.com
