Ukraine Ceasefire
By Chris Williams
Russian President Vladimir Putin has conditionally backed a 30-day ceasefire in Ukraine, but raised concerns about its implementation, indicating he would discuss the matter with U.S. President Donald Trump before committing to the plan.
Putin made the remarks at a press conference in Moscow on Thursday, where he responded to a joint U.S.-Ukrainian ceasefire proposal that is due to be presented to Russian officials later today by U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff.
“We agree with proposals to cease hostilities, but on the basis that that cessation would lead to long-term peace and addresses the root causes of the crisis,” Putin told reporters.
“But there are nuances,” he added, referencing his concerns about the military situation on the front lines.⸻
Putin’s Concerns About the Ceasefire Proposal
While indicating Russia’s willingness to discuss a truce, Putin expressed strong reservations about how the ceasefire would be monitored and enforced.
• Active military operations in Kursk:
Putin pointed out that Russian forces are currently advancing in the Kursk region, an area where they have been attempting to drive Ukrainian forces out. He questioned how a ceasefire would be managed in an area where active combat is ongoing.
• Supervision and compliance:
Putin asked how the ceasefire would be monitored to prevent either side from violating the truce or using it to their advantage.
“If we stop hostilities for 30 days, what does that mean? That everyone who is there will go out without a fight? How will supervision (of the ceasefire) be organised?”
• Western military aid to Ukraine:
The Russian President raised concerns that Ukraine could use the ceasefire period to rearm and receive further military support from the West, arguing that such a situation would not be acceptable to Moscow.
• Direct talks with Trump:
Putin stated he would likely speak directly to Donald Trump about these concerns, saying:
“I think we need to talk to our American colleagues… Maybe have a phone call with President Trump and discuss this with him.”
⸻
U.S. and Ukraine Push for Ceasefire
The 30-day ceasefire proposal was jointly agreed upon by Washington and Kyiv earlier this week and is expected to be presented to Russian negotiators by Steve Witkoff, the U.S. special envoy for Ukraine talks.
Key Elements of the Ceasefire Plan
• A full cessation of hostilities for 30 days, with the possibility of extension if both sides agree.
• Independent monitoring mechanisms to ensure compliance.
• Negotiations on the broader conflict resolution process during the truce period.
• No further movement of troops or heavy weaponry during the ceasefire.
The proposal is seen as an attempt to pause the conflict and lay the groundwork for a potential long-term peace agreement.
“The ceasefire is an opportunity for both sides to come to the table and talk,” said U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio in Washington.
“Russia now has a choice: agree to a ceasefire and negotiations, or continue this costly war.”Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky welcomed the proposal, saying Ukraine remains committed to peace but will not accept a ceasefire that allows Russia to consolidate gains.
“We will not allow Russia to use a ceasefire as a way to reinforce its positions,” Zelensky said.⸻
Trump Responds to Putin’s Statements
U.S. President Donald Trump responded to Putin’s remarks, saying he was open to discussing Russian concerns but expected Moscow to commit to the ceasefire plan.
“Putin says he has questions – that’s fine. We’re going to have those conversations. But the reality is this war needs to end, and Russia has a choice to make,” Trump told reporters at the White House.Trump reiterated that the U.S. will not continue funding Ukraine indefinitely and suggested that Russia has more to gain by agreeing to peace talks than by continuing hostilities.
“It’s time for this war to stop. It’s costing everyone too much – including Russia,” he said.⸻
What Happens Next?
- Russia’s Official Response to the Ceasefire Proposal
Putin’s cautious support suggests that Russia may not outright reject the proposal, but will likely seek modifications. Russian officials will meet with Steve Witkoff later today to discuss the details.
- Possible Trump-Putin Phone Call
Putin indicated that he wants to personally speak with Trump about the ceasefire. If a call happens, it could determine whether Russia agrees to the proposal or demands further negotiations.
- Military Situation on the Ground
• Russia claims its forces are making advances in multiple areas, particularly in Kursk.
• Ukraine has not confirmed these reports but says it is prepared to continue fighting if a ceasefire is not agreed upon.
• Both sides remain highly active on the battlefield, which could complicate ceasefire efforts.
⸻
International Reaction
European Leaders Call for De-Escalation
• French President Emmanuel Macron:
“We welcome any step toward peace, but it must be a real ceasefire, not just a temporary pause.”
• German Chancellor Olaf Scholz:
“We urge Russia to take this opportunity seriously. A diplomatic solution is the only way forward.”
NATO Expresses Skepticism
• NATO officials are concerned that Russia may agree to the ceasefire only to regroup and launch further attacks later.
• NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said, “We have seen Russia use ceasefires before as a military tactic. Any truce must be monitored and verified.”
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