Russian President Vladimir Putin has expressed support for the idea of a ceasefire in Ukraine but raised concerns about its implementation, outlining several tough conditions. His remarks came in response to a proposed 30-day truce, which Ukraine had already agreed to earlier this week following discussions with the United States.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky dismissed Putin’s response as "manipulative" and called for increased sanctions against Russia. In line with this stance, the US imposed further restrictions on Russia’s oil, gas, and banking sectors.
Speaking at a press conference in Moscow on Thursday, Putin stated, "The idea is right—we support it—but there are questions that need to be discussed." He emphasized that any ceasefire should pave the way for "an enduring peace and address the root causes of the crisis."
"We need to negotiate with our American colleagues and partners," Putin said, hinting at a possible call with former US President Donald Trump.
Putin acknowledged that a ceasefire would be beneficial for Ukraine but insisted that "nuances" needed to be addressed. One key point of contention, he noted, was the Kursk region, where Ukraine launched an incursion last year. He claimed that Russian forces had regained full control of the area and that Ukrainian troops stationed there had been "isolated."
"They are trying to leave, but we are in control," Putin stated. "Their equipment has been abandoned. For Ukrainians in Kursk, there are only two options—surrender or die."
Putin also questioned how the 30-day ceasefire would be enforced, raising concerns about Ukraine using the truce to regroup militarily. "How will those 30 days be used? For Ukraine to mobilize? Rearm? Train people? Or none of that? Then, how will this be controlled?" he asked.
"Who will issue the order to end the fighting? Who decides if a violation occurs across a 2,000km frontline? These are complex issues requiring detailed negotiations," he added.
Is Putin Open to a Ceasefire or Buying Time?
Zelensky, in his nightly address, argued that while Putin did not outright reject the ceasefire, he was preparing to do so indirectly.
"Putin, of course, is afraid to tell President Trump directly that he wants to continue this war and kill Ukrainians," Zelensky stated.
He accused Putin of setting so many preconditions that negotiations would ultimately fail.
Following these exchanges, a stark divide has emerged between both sides. Ukraine wants a two-stage process—an immediate ceasefire followed by broader peace talks. Russia, on the other hand, insists that all issues be resolved in a single, comprehensive deal.
For Trump, this deadlock presents a challenge. The former president has made it clear that he wants a swift resolution to the war. However, Putin does not appear to be cooperating with that timeline.
Speaking from the White House, Trump said he would "love" to meet with the Russian leader and urged Moscow to accept the proposed truce.
"We’d like to see a ceasefire from Russia," Trump stated.
Earlier in the day, during a meeting with NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte, Trump revealed that discussions with Ukraine had already covered territorial disputes.
"We’ve talked about land—what will be kept, what will be lost, and other key elements of a final agreement," Trump said. "A lot of the details have already been discussed."
When asked about Ukraine’s potential NATO membership, Trump responded cryptically, "Everybody knows what the answer to that is."
US Tightens Sanctions as Diplomatic Efforts Continue
The US has intensified sanctions on Russian energy exports, making it more difficult for other countries to purchase Russian oil by restricting access to American payment systems.
Meanwhile, in a significant diplomatic move, Putin met with US special envoy Steve Witkoff behind closed doors in Moscow. Earlier, Kremlin aide Yuri Ushakov dismissed the ceasefire proposal from the US.
Adding to the tensions, the Kremlin released footage of Putin visiting Russia’s Kursk region, dressed in military fatigues. Later, Russian authorities claimed to have recaptured the key town of Sudzha.
The Ongoing War and Its Toll
Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in February 2022 and currently controls approximately 20% of Ukrainian territory.
The conflict has resulted in heavy casualties. More than 95,000 Russian soldiers have reportedly died, while Ukraine last disclosed its losses in December 2024, estimating 43,000 deaths among its forces. However, Western analysts believe the real number could be higher.
As the war rages on, the question remains—will Putin engage in meaningful peace talks, or is he simply stalling for time?
