Putin Backs U.S. Ceasefire Proposal but Calls for Detailed Negotiation

Vladimir Putin supports a U.S. ceasefire proposal for Ukraine but stresses the need for detailed terms. Trump expressed disappointment if Russia rejects the proposal. Ukrainian President Zelenskyy is open to the ceasefire, viewing it as a step toward broader peace negotiations.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has shown support for a U.S. ceasefire proposal to stop the ongoing conflict with Ukraine, highlighting the necessity of addressing essential details. He asserted that the ceasefire should pave the way for a lasting peace that addresses the crisis’s root causes.

Putin suggested a discussion with former President Donald Trump, stating, “Maybe I should call President [Donald] Trump and have a discussion with him.” In response, Trump expressed that it would be disheartening if Russia were to reject U.S. efforts. He noted the details of a potential agreement have been discussed and stated, “A lot of the details of a final agreement have actually been discussed. Now we’re going to see if Russia is there and, if not, it will be a very disappointing moment for the world.”

Putin’s foreign policy aide dismissed the U.S.’s proposal for a 30-day ceasefire, arguing it would only give Ukraine’s military a temporary break. This was following the arrival of U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff in Moscow to engage in discussions regarding the ceasefire. Aide Yuri Ushakov revealed ongoing confidential communications with U.S. national security adviser Mike Waltz.

Earlier in the week, U.S. officials conducted meetings with Ukrainian representatives in Saudi Arabia to discuss the ceasefire proposal. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed readiness for the 30-day ceasefire, indicating that the pause could facilitate broader peace negotiations following Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.

The talks come amid reports by the Russian Defense Ministry that its forces regained control of Sudzha, a significant town in Russia’s western Kursk region, from Ukrainian troops who had captured it last August during a surprise attack.

In summary, President Putin’s support for a U.S. ceasefire proposal emphasizes the importance of negotiating details that lead to a sustainable peace. While Trump highlights potential disappointment if Russia does not engage positively, Ukrainian President Zelenskyy’s willingness to consider a ceasefire underlines the ongoing diplomatic efforts. The situation remains fluid with military developments continuing to unfold alongside international negotiations.

Original Source: www.voanews.com