PUTIN RESPONDS TO CEASEFIRE PROPOSAL
Putin addressed the proposed Ukrainian ceasefire with caution, raising concerns about its feasibility and underlying intent. While acknowledging Donald Trump’s involvement in pushing for negotiations, he deliberately highlighted that all BRICS leaders—Xi Jinping, Modi, Lula, and Ramaphosa—are also engaged in diplomatic efforts, reinforcing a multipolar framing of the peace process.
However, Putin made clear that the situation on the ground does not favor Ukraine. He repeatedly emphasized that Russian forces have established complete fire control in Kursk, with a large Ukrainian grouping encircled and effectively cut off from reinforcement or retreat. Equipment has been abandoned, and full physical encirclement is imminent, meaning that Ukrainian forces in the area have no viable options beyond surrender or destruction.
Against this backdrop, Putin questioned Kiev’s motivations for proposing a temporary truce, viewing it as a potential opportunity for Ukraine to regroup, rearm, and reinforce its positions. He outlined key concerns:
- The status of Ukrainian forces in Kursk: Would they simply be allowed to withdraw after committing what he described as crimes against civilians?
- The use of the ceasefire period: Would Ukraine use the time to strengthen its positions, mobilize additional forces, and receive new Western arms shipments?
- Enforcement and verification: With active combat taking place along nearly 2,000 km of frontlines, who would oversee compliance, and how would violations be determined?
Putin’s remarks echo prior Russian skepticism toward Western-brokered agreements, such as the Minsk Accords, which Russian officials have claimed Ukraine and its Western backers used as a delay tactic rather than a genuine roadmap to peace. He indicated that any ceasefire must result in a long-term settlement that addresses the root causes of the conflict, not merely a temporary pause in hostilities.
While he acknowledged the necessity of diplomatic engagement, Putin left open whether direct discussions with Trump would take place. His tone suggested that while Moscow is open to negotiations, it remains highly doubtful of Kiev’s intentions and the West’s ability to guarantee any meaningful agreement.
