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Russian President Vladimir Putin has expressed support for a ceasefire in Ukraine while simultaneously imposing substantial preconditions that could derail peace efforts. "The idea is right - and we support it - but there are questions that we need to discuss," Putin stated during a Moscow press conference.
The Russian leader's response follows Ukraine's agreement to a US-proposed 30-day truce earlier this week. President Volodymyr Zelensky quickly labeled Putin's reaction as "manipulative," claiming Russia is actively seeking to prolong the conflict.
Putin questioned how the ceasefire period would be utilized: "How will those 30 days be used? For Ukraine to mobilize? Rearm? Train people? Or none of that?" He emphasized any truce must address the "root causes" of the conflict and suggested direct negotiations with US President Donald Trump.
Regarding military developments, Putin declared Russia has regained control of the Kursk region, where Ukrainian forces launched an incursion last year. "They are trying to leave, but we are in control. Their equipment has been abandoned," he asserted.
President Trump expressed cautious optimism following Putin's statements. "We'd like to see a ceasefire from Russia," Trump said, adding he would "love" to meet with Putin and hoped Russia would "do the right thing" regarding the proposed truce.
The diplomatic standoff reveals a significant divide between both sides' approaches. Ukraine prefers a two-stage process with an immediate ceasefire followed by settlement talks, while Russia insists all issues must be resolved in a single comprehensive agreement.
US officials have intensified pressure on Russia through additional sanctions targeting oil, gas, and banking sectors. Meanwhile, US special envoy Steve Witkoff met with Putin in Moscow, reflecting Trump's determination to secure a rapid resolution to the conflict.
Russia currently controls approximately 20% of Ukrainian territory since launching its full-scale invasion in February 2022. Military casualties have been substantial, with over 95,000 Russian military deaths reported and at least 43,000 Ukrainian casualties acknowledged by Zelensky in December 2024.
Trump maintains he has financial leverage over Russia if Putin rejects the ceasefire proposal, stating: "We've been discussing with Ukraine land and pieces of land that would be kept and lost, and all of the other elements of a final agreement."
