Putin Acknowledges Trump’s Ceasefire Efforts but Calls for Lasting Peace
Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed gratitude towards President Trump for ceasefire efforts in Ukraine but stressed the need for lasting peace rather than a short-term solution. He hinted at discussing the ceasefire with U.S. partners and raised concerns that a temporary ceasefire could primarily benefit Ukraine. Meanwhile, Ukraine remains ready for a ceasefire and seeks U.S. support to pressure Russia towards peace negotiations.
In a recent address, Russian President Vladimir Putin acknowledged and thanked President Donald Trump for his efforts toward a ceasefire in Ukraine, though he emphasized the need for lasting peace rather than a temporary halt. While Putin expressed support for the idea of an immediate ceasefire, he stated, “But there are issues that we need to discuss” with American partners.
Putin highlighted that any ceasefire should aim to resolve the underlying causes of the conflict, asserting, “We proceed from the assumption that the ceasefire should lead to lasting peace.” However, he refrained from formally agreeing to the 30-day ceasefire proposed by Ukraine, indicating that there were significant variables to consider, particularly regarding the status of Ukrainian troops.
Additionally, Putin noted that a ceasefire might only serve to benefit Ukraine, potentially allowing them to regroup and rearm. He articulated that a temporary ceasefire could work to Ukraine’s advantage, suggesting that it could be beneficial for them to secure a ceasefire for at least 30 days. His aide, Yuri Ushakov, echoed these sentiments, stating that the ceasefire would primarily offer Ukrainian forces a temporary respite.
While discussing Russia’s position, Ushakov remarked on the need for a long-term solution rather than simple gestures of peace, underscoring that Russia has presented a list of demands for ending hostilities, which reportedly include barring Ukraine from NATO membership and retaining control over certain regions. Ukraine had agreed to the 30-day ceasefire contingent upon the Kremlin’s acceptance, with discussions set to resume.
Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed readiness for a ceasefire, emphasizing the U.S.’s role in lifting aid and intelligence pauses following conducive discussions in Jeddah. Zelenskyy criticized Putin’s inaction on the ceasefire proposal, stating it reflects Russia’s intentions to delay peace efforts, while he expressed hope that U.S. influence could compel Russia to expedite resolution to the ongoing war.
The discourse surrounding the ceasefire in Ukraine illustrates a complex negotiation landscape, where Russian leadership acknowledges U.S. efforts while maintaining a cautious stance. Putin’s comments elucidate Russia’s demand for a thorough discussion on the terms of any agreement, stressing the requirement for a solution that addresses core issues, not merely a temporary cessation of hostilities. Additionally, the recent dynamics between Ukraine and the U.S. signal a renewed commitment to pursue peace while remaining vigilant about Russia’s contrasting priorities.
Original Source: www.foxnews.com
