Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed “reservations” about a proposed 30-day ceasefire in Ukraine during a Thursday news conference, questioning how the situation would unfold in regions like Kursk if the truce were implemented.
While Putin described the U.S. proposal as a “great and correct” idea and acknowledged Russia’s theoretical support for it, he emphasized that numerous details still need to be discussed before reaching an agreement.
He raised several concerns about a potential ceasefire, particularly regarding verification measures. He also insisted that any ceasefire must contribute to a lasting peace by addressing the “root causes” of the conflict—a phrase he has used repeatedly. The Kremlin has previously claimed that the current Ukrainian government is part of those root causes.
Putin also said he “maybe” would call U.S. President Donald Trump, but Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov told CNN that no such conversation was expected on Thursday.
War in a Key Region
Moscow reported that Russian forces have recaptured Sudzha, the largest town Ukraine once held in the Kursk region. The development threatens Kyiv’s only significant territorial bargaining chip as pressure mounts to negotiate an end to the war.
Meeting with Lukashenko
Putin also met with Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko in Moscow. Lukashenko claimed that the U.S. lacks a concrete plan for Ukraine and is merely “testing the waters” with its ceasefire proposal.
Lukashenko, Putin’s closest international ally, downplayed the urgency of reaching an agreement, stating that many obstacles remain.
“I simply advise you: Don’t fall for Donald’s tricks,” he added, referring to Trump.
