Putin Sets Conditions for Ukraine Ceasefire Amidst U.S. Proposal

Russian President Vladimir Putin addressed the proposed 30-day ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine, initially suggested by the U.S. Putin expressed conditional agreement, thanking U.S. President Trump for his efforts but outlined specific demands. Putin stated Russia would halt combat operations if the ceasefire leads to a lasting peace and addresses the "root causes" of the crisis. He raised concerns about Ukrainian soldiers allegedly encircled in the Kursk region, suggesting only their surrender would be acceptable. He also alleged Russian forces are advancing along the nearly 2,000-kilometer front line. Putin expressed concern that Ukraine might use the ceasefire to mobilize troops and receive new weapons from the West, demanding guarantees against such support. He emphasized the need to resolve numerous details before any ceasefire could be implemented.