Russian leader Vladimir Putin has said he would be open to a short-term ceasefire in Ukraine, but made it clear that he would only do so on his terms.
At a press conference with Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko, Putin stated, “We agree with the proposals for the ceasefire, but only if certain conditions are met.”
“Our position is based on the assumption the ceasefire will lead to a long-term peace,” he added, according to The Telegrah, insisting that the peace must address the “root causes” of the conflict.
Putin has repeatedly ruled out a temporary ceasefire without guarantees that Ukraine would not join Nato. He also said Russia would not give back any land it has taken from Ukraine.
Regarding the US proposal for a 30-day ceasefire, Putin expressed support but noted there are “nuances” that need to be worked out. He said “serious questions” remain over how the ceasefire will be implemented and who will control it. He also mentioned that Russian forces are making progress along most of the front line.
Putin is set to meet US envoy Steve Witkoff in a closed-door meeting in Moscow later tonight. The Russian leader suggested that he might discuss the possibility of a ceasefire with former President Donald Trump.
In response to Putin’s remarks, Trump said it would be “very disappointing” if Russia turned down the US-backed truce, adding that he hoped Putin “would do the right thing.”
