Russian President Vladimir Putin recently expressed hesitations about a 30-day ceasefire in Ukraine. During a press briefing, he mentioned that the future of tensions in regions like Kursk remains uncertain if a ceasefire were to take effect.
Putin acknowledged a U.S. proposal for the ceasefire, referring to it as “great and correct,” but noted there are unresolved discussions. This came after a recent visit from American special envoy Steve Witkoff, who updated Russian officials on the peace plan. The U.S. has emphasized that the decision is now in Russia’s hands.
Meanwhile, during talks in Saudi Arabia, Ukraine accepted a U.S.-backed ceasefire covering the entire frontline. However, Putin stressed that any ceasefire should address the deeper issues fueling the conflict. He has claimed in the past that the Ukrainian government plays a significant role in the ongoing crisis, which began when Russia annexed Crimea in 2014 and escalated into a full-scale invasion in 2022.
Putin raised several concerns about the ceasefire. He questioned who would supervise its enforcement, the role of Ukrainian forces in contested areas, and the lasting effects of a temporary lull in fighting. He pointed out that regions like Kursk could be complicated by military actions during a truce, posing risks of further violence.
A Russian presidential aide expressed skepticism about the U.S. ceasefire proposal, suggesting it might just pause hostilities to allow Ukraine to regroup. However, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov clarified that this skepticism should not be interpreted as a complete rejection of the U.S. plan.
The U.S. has also made it clear that any future peacekeeping efforts would exclude NATO forces, which Russia firmly opposes. Over the years, Moscow has consistently rejected any foreign military presence in Ukraine.
On a different note, as the war continues, new statistics highlight the far-reaching impact on civilians. According to a recent UN report, thousands of Ukrainian civilians have been displaced, with many lacking access to basic necessities. The ongoing conflict underscores the humanitarian crisis at play alongside military strategies.
Putin’s remarks and the broader discussions echo a crucial time in the unfolding conflict. User reactions on social media reveal a mix of hope for peace and skepticism about whether any ceasefire would lead to meaningful resolutions. As tensions remain high, international observers are watching closely to see how events will unfold and what they mean for the region’s future.
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