US Negotiators Present Ceasefire Proposal in Russia Amid Ukraine Conflict
US negotiators, led by Witkoff, propose a 30-day ceasefire in Ukraine. Witkoff’s prior success includes a recent prisoner swap. Meanwhile, Putin aligns with Belarus on security, while Russia retaliates against EU sanctions. Moscow postpones talks on unfreezing foreign assets and seeks troop absence in Ukraine. Positive sentiment grows among some Russians regarding potential peace.
US negotiators, led by Witkoff, are in Russia to propose a 30-day ceasefire in Ukraine amidst ongoing diplomatic efforts. Witkoff, a seasoned real estate investor and long-time associate of Trump, previously helped mediate a Gaza ceasefire. His recent visit to Moscow resulted in a successful prisoner exchange, enhancing his rapport with Russian officials, particularly Kirill Dmitriev.
During a recent briefing, President Putin discussed security cooperation with Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko, ratifying a treaty aimed at mutual defense. He emphasized the importance of the treaty for the security of both nations, using their available military resources. Meanwhile, the Russian Foreign Ministry has expanded its list of banned officials from the EU in retaliation for newly imposed sanctions, including those targeting a cryptocurrency exchange.
Moscow has rejected discussions on unfreezing foreign-held funds until its own assets frozen abroad, amounting to about $300 billion, are resolved. Deputy Finance Minister Chebeskov reiterated that Russia will not consider releasing frozen funds, stating it is inefficient to discuss asset liberation now. Instead, Russia is shifting foreign assets to restricted accounts, making access conditional on Moscow’s allowances.
Additionally, the Kremlin assists negotiations but has not yet arranged a pivotal phone call between President Putin and President Trump. As the dialogue progresses, Finnish Defense Minister Antti Hakkanen reaffirmed Nordic support for Ukraine, sharing insights from meetings with Ukrainian defense representatives.
In light of ongoing conflict, concerns persist regarding the deployment of foreign troops in Ukraine. Russia reportedly demands the withdrawal of foreign military forces as part of any ceasefire agreement. Streets in Russia reflect a mix of hope and skepticism about the potential end to hostilities, with voices expressing a desire for peace now more than ever.
In summary, US negotiators are actively seeking a ceasefire in Ukraine, with Witkoff’s past successes bolstering their efforts. While Russia and Belarus enhance security cooperation, Moscow remains firm on asset negotiations and foreign troop withdrawal. As discussions unfold, various stakeholders closely watch the evolving diplomacy surrounding the Ukraine conflict, reflecting both public sentiment in Russia and international dynamics.
Original Source: www.aljazeera.com
