Putin backs 30-day ceasefire but warns of ‘nuances’

New Delhi, Mar 13: Russian President Vladimir Putin has expressed support for a proposed 30-day ceasefire in Ukraine but stressed there are complexities involved. “We agree with the proposal to cease hostilities, but it should lead to enduring peace and remove underlying causes of this crisis,” Putin stated in a press conference, answering questions posed by media persons after his meeting at a news conference held by Russian President Vladimir Putin and Belarus’ leader Alexander Lukashenko.

Addressing reporters, Putin thanked former US President Donald Trump for his efforts in seeking a settlement in Ukraine and even proposed a telephone call with the President of the US.

He emphasised that while Russia supports the ceasefire, it must be meaningful and contribute to long-term stability. Putin added that Ukraine should have been more proactive in seeking talks with the US, particularly in light of recent developments.

“I am convinced Ukraine should have persistently asked the United States for a meeting, like the one in Saudi Arabia, given the situation on the ground,” he said.

Putin described his recent visit to Russia’s Kursk region, claiming the situation there is “fully under our control” and that Ukrainian forces had “lost control” of their equipment, which he said had been “abandoned.” “In light of this, it would be good for Ukraine to achieve a 30-day ceasefire,” Putin remarked. “We are in favour of it.”

However, he warned that such a ceasefire would require careful consideration. “There are nuances,” Putin said. “If we ceased hostilities… what would that mean?” He questioned what impact this might have on Russia’s control over the Kursk region.

While answering a few questions from the media, Putin also thanked India, China, and South Africa for their roles and support.

Meanwhile, Kremlin aide Yuri Ushakov earlier dismissed the proposed ceasefire as a mere opportunity for Ukraine to regroup its forces. “This is nothing but a temporary respite for Ukraine’s armed forces,” Ushakov said.

The ceasefire proposal, backed by the US and Ukraine, aims to halt land, sea, and air combat for 30 days, with the possibility of an extension. BBC earlier reported that European leaders have welcomed the initiative. German Chancellor Olaf Scholz called it “an important and correct step,” while Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez described it as “encouraging news.” Latvian President Edgars Rinkevics praised Ukraine’s efforts for peace, adding, “The ball is now in Russia’s court.”

Talks are expected to continue in Moscow, where US envoy Steve Witkoff has reached and scheduled to meet with Russian officials to discuss the ceasefire plan. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov confirmed the negotiations are set to take place later in the day. world keep watching and expects a ceasefire.