Putin Indicates US Proposal Could Lead to Ukraine Ceasefire

Russian President Vladimir Putin has stated that a revised proposal from the United States could potentially serve as a foundation for a future ceasefire agreement concerning the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. However, he made it clear that this would only be feasible if Ukraine withdraws its military forces from territories that Moscow claims as its own. Should Ukraine refuse to comply, Putin warned that Russia would resort to military action to secure these areas.

These remarks were made during Putin's visit to Kyrgyzstan, where he asserted, "If Ukrainian forces leave the territories they hold, then we will stop combat operations. If they don't, then we will achieve it by military means." Currently, Russian forces control approximately one-fifth of Ukraine's territory, which includes regions like Donetsk and Crimea. Ukrainian officials have repeatedly stated that they will not cede any land to Russia.

The new US initiative aims to facilitate peace talks with both Moscow and Kyiv, as the war approaches its fourth anniversary. The original proposal from Washington had suggested that Ukraine retreat from the Donetsk region, effectively acknowledging Russian sovereignty over Donetsk, Crimea, and Lugansk. However, this plan faced backlash from European allies and Ukrainian leadership, prompting the US to reassess its approach. The details of the updated proposal have yet to be made public, but it is believed to contain around 20 key points.

Putin has indicated that he has reviewed the latest draft and believes it could serve as a starting point for negotiations. He reiterated that Russia seeks international recognition for the territories it occupies, stating, "Overall, we agree that it could form the basis for future agreements." In contrast, Ukrainian officials have firmly rejected any notion of territorial compromise. Andriy Yermak, chief aide to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, stated, "As long as Zelensky is president, no one should count on us giving up territory. He will not sign away territory," emphasising that discussions should focus on the existing front line, which spans approximately 1,100 kilometres.

As diplomatic efforts continue, US negotiator Steve Witkoff is scheduled to visit Moscow next week to discuss the revised proposal, while US Army Secretary Dan Driscoll is expected to travel to Kyiv later this week. The situation remains fluid as both sides prepare for potential negotiations amid ongoing military tensions.