Putin Approves US-Made Ceasefire Proposal, but Cites Key "Nuances"

TDT | Manama

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Russian President Vladimir Putin has expressed his support for a proposed 30-day ceasefire but stressed that there are critical "nuances" that need to be addressed before he can fully commit. Speaking at a news conference in Moscow on Thursday, Putin highlighted that for the ceasefire to be effective, it must lead to a lasting peace and address what he referred to as the "root causes" of Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

The "root causes," according to Moscow, include the demilitarisation of Ukraine and the establishment of a neutral status for the country—pretexts that Putin cited in justifying the all-out invasion of Ukraine in early 2022.

Putin outlined several conditions for the ceasefire, emphasizing that Ukraine must halt further troop mobilisations and military training. He also insisted that Ukraine should not receive any military support during the ceasefire period. The Russian president raised a series of questions, including whether Ukraine would continue to mobilise troops and receive arms during the 30-day ceasefire. He expressed concerns over whether these 30 days would be used to train newly mobilised units, adding that these uncertainties remained unresolved.

Another significant issue for Putin was the situation in Russia’s Kursk region. The area has been the site of cross-border incursions by Ukrainian forces since August 2024. Recent reports indicate that Russian forces have retaken substantial portions of the territory, including the town of Sudzha.

Putin questioned the terms of the ceasefire in relation to the situation in Kursk, asking whether Ukrainian forces would be allowed to withdraw from the region without facing any opposition. He raised concerns about potential crimes committed by Ukrainian troops in the area, suggesting that any cessation of hostilities should address these issues.

However, the Russian president did not address Moscow's ongoing occupation of Ukrainian territories or the allegations of atrocities committed by Russian forces since the invasion began. As the war enters its fourth year, these questions continue to hang over the conflict, further complicating efforts toward peace.