Putin Signals Conditional Support for U.S. Ceasefi...

Putin Signals Conditional Support for U.S. Ceasefire Proposal in Ukraine Conflict

Zim Now Writer

Russian President Vladimir Putin has expressed conditional support for a U.S.-proposed ceasefire in Ukraine but insists that several crucial issues must first be addressed.

Speaking at the Kremlin, Putin acknowledged the ceasefire proposal as a step in the right direction but emphasized that any halt in hostilities must ensure long-term peace and address what Russia views as the root causes of the conflict. He reiterated demands for Ukraine to abandon its NATO ambitions, recognize Russian control over four annexed regions, and limit its military capacity. Additionally, Putin signaled that Western sanctions relief and a presidential election in Ukraine should be part of the broader resolution.

The ongoing war, which began in February 2022, has led to massive casualties, displacement, and destruction, escalating tensions between Moscow and the West. The U.S. proposal, already accepted by Ukraine, is being negotiated with Russia through diplomatic channels, with former President Donald Trump playing a key role in facilitating talks.

Trump described Putin’s response as "very promising" and noted that discussions in Moscow, led by his special envoy Steve Witkoff, would determine Russia’s willingness to engage in a peace deal. However, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy expressed skepticism, accusing Putin of imposing excessive conditions to delay the process.

With Russia controlling nearly a fifth of Ukraine and advancing militarily since mid-2024, Western nations fear that any ceasefire terms may favor Moscow. European leaders remain concerned that Trump may seek a broader geopolitical agreement with Putin, potentially shifting U.S. policy on Ukraine and other global issues.

While Putin expressed openness to further discussions with Washington, he stressed that any ceasefire must guarantee that Ukraine will not use the pause to regroup militarily. He suggested that a direct conversation with Trump might be necessary to move negotiations forward.

Trump confirmed that territorial disputes, including control over key regions and the Russian-occupied Zaporizhzhia nuclear power plant, remain central to discussions. With both sides maneuvering for leverage, the timeline and feasibility of a ceasefire agreement remain uncertain.