In his first public statement on the ceasefire proposal announced by the U.S. for Ukraine, Russian President Vladimir Putin said he was open to the plan, adding, however, that it must lead to long-term peace in the region.
After thanking President Trump for his peace initiative, Putin raised several questions that need to be addressed before any concrete actions.
“We agree with the ceasefire proposal, but only if it serves as the foundation for a permanent cessation of hostilities.”
Putin suggested that Ukraine’s decisions were made under pressure from the U.S. and argued that Kyiv should have pleaded for ceasefire talks earlier, considering the situation on the ground. He referenced developments in Kursk, claiming that the situation there is under Russian control and that the remaining Ukrainian units are surrounded.
“The commander of the Ukrainian forces in the area has been killed. Ukrainian troops tried to escape but failed. Now, they are attempting to flee individually. There are only two options for them—either they leave in body bags or surrender,” Putin stated.
The Russian president continued, posing critical questions: “Given the current conditions and the realities along the 2,000-kilometer frontline, what will happen to Kursk? If we halt for 30 days, what will be the outcome? This remains unclear. At this moment, securing a ceasefire would be a relief for Ukraine. But if we stop operations in Kursk for 30 days, does that mean the Ukrainians will be able to leave without fighting, or will they surrender? That is uncertain. The situation along the front line is also unclear.”
Vladimir Putin also questioned how Ukraine would use the proposed 30-day pause. “Will they use this time to strengthen their forces? Will they replenish their ammunition? Who can guarantee that this won’t happen? Who will oversee the ceasefire? Can you imagine monitoring a 2,000-kilometer area? These are all questions that both sides need to examine carefully.”
He concluded by reaffirming Russia’s willingness to consider the ceasefire but insisted that key issues must be discussed. “We support the idea, but there are things that must be negotiated. Will we discuss them with President Trump? Perhaps we will have a phone call.”
