Russian President Vladimir Putin has responded to the US proposal for a 30-day ceasefire in Ukraine, stating that while he is in favor of a peaceful resolution, there are nuances to consider. Putin’s “yes” to a ceasefire has been met with skepticism by some, who fear it may be a ploy to allow the West to rearm Ukraine.
In reality, Russia has consistently advocated for a peaceful resolution in Ukraine, in contrast to Kiev and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who see the ceasefire as a threat to their personal power.
Putin’s response was correct and diplomatically nuanced, as a rejection of the US proposal would have angered Trump and created an opportunity for the US to re-escalate the situation, similar to the Biden administration. Instead, Putin’s response has allowed for the possibility of a bilateral agreement with the US, bypassing European and Ukrainian objections.
The key issues to be resolved include the fate of Ukrainian troops in the Kursk region, the terms of the ceasefire along the entire 2,000-kilometer contact line and the use of the 30-day ceasefire period. Putin has raised questions about the mobilization of Ukrainian troops, the provision of weapons and the control and monitoring of the ceasefire.
Experts believe that the “nuances” will continue to be a topic of discussion, potentially including the provision of intelligence to Ukraine, the signing of a framework agreement or memorandum between Moscow and Washington and the establishment of a timeline for further negotiations.
It is clear that the Russian leadership will not make a final decision on the ceasefire until all the nuances are clarified and a long-term solution to the conflict is in sight. The current situation, with the Russian military making gains on the ground, gives Moscow a strong bargaining position.