Putin called for discussions with the U.S. regarding these concerns and the terms of a potential peace agreement.
His stance on the proposed ceasefire drew criticism from Ukraine and a restrained response from U.S. President Donald Trump, who has fluctuated between expressing confidence in Putin’s commitment to a peace deal and threatening Russia with new sanctions if a ceasefire is not agreed upon.
What is the US-Ukraine ceasefire proposal?
During talks in Jeddah, representatives from Washington and Kyiv proposed an “immediate, interim” 30-day ceasefire on the war front.
The proposal emphasized prisoner exchange, release of civilian detainees, and return of forcibly transferred Ukrainian children, without mentioning sanctions on Russia or security guarantees for Ukraine.
What did Putin say about the ceasefire?
For nearly two days, Putin remained silent about the ceasefire proposal before speaking at a news conference with Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko.
Putin deemed the idea of a ceasefire “correct” and expressed support for it in principle. He added that there are issues that need to be discussed with the U.S.
What issues does Putin want resolved before a ceasefire?
Putin raised three questions that he sees as necessary to resolve before Moscow can accept a ceasefire.
How will the Kursk incursion play out?
Putin questioned the fate of the Ukrainian troops in the Kursk region, asking whether they will leave without resistance or be ordered to surrender.
Will Ukraine mobilise troops and receive new weapons during the ceasefire?
Putin also suggested that a temporary ceasefire may allow Ukraine to mobilize additional forces and receive further weapons, which he believes would be contrary to the purpose of a ceasefire.
Who will verify the ceasefire?
Putin sought clarification on who would oversee the ceasefire and ensure compliance with its terms along the 2,000 km front line.
How has the US reacted?
Putin’s comments came after US President Donald Trump’s special Middle East envoy Steve Witkoff’s visit to Russia. During a meeting with NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte, Trump stated that Putin’s position was promising but incomplete.
Trump conveyed willingness to exert pressure, including sanctions on Russia. The U.S. and Ukraine recently restored military aid and intelligence sharing after earlier tensions.
How has Ukraine reacted?
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy accused Putin of preparing to reject the ceasefire, urging increased sanctions to pressure Russia to agree to a truce.
Some experts suggest that the U.S. could potentially accommodate Putin’s concerns, which might leave Ukraine no choice but to accept Russia’s peace terms.
