Russian President Vladimir Putin has responded to a proposed 30-day ceasefire in Ukraine, agreeing in principle but outlining strict conditions that cast doubt on Russia’s commitment to peace. His remarks, made during a press conference in Moscow, indicate that Russia sees the ceasefire as a complex issue rather than an immediate solution.
Tough Conditions for a Truce
Putin acknowledged the ceasefire as a “right idea” but raised concerns about its implementation. He questioned whether Ukraine would use the 30-day period to mobilize, rearm, or train new troops, and how compliance would be enforced. He also pointed to the Kursk region, where Russian forces claim to have regained control after a Ukrainian incursion. According to Putin, Ukrainian troops in the area face two choices: surrender or die.
Ukraine and US Response
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky dismissed Putin’s stance as manipulative and urged further sanctions on Russia. He accused Putin of setting unrealistic conditions to stall negotiations rather than genuinely seeking peace. Meanwhile, former US President Donald Trump expressed hope that Russia would “do the right thing” and agree to the ceasefire, while also discussing territorial negotiations with Ukraine.
A Strategic Standoff
Ukraine prefers a two-stage approach: implementing a ceasefire first and then negotiating a lasting agreement. Russia, however, insists that all issues be resolved in a single deal. This strategic divergence leaves the ceasefire in limbo, with both sides leveraging diplomatic pressure to shape the outcome. As geopolitical tensions rise, the world watches to see whether Putin is truly considering peace—or simply buying time.