Putin Ties Ceasefire to Ukrainian Withdrawal, Says U.S. Plan Could Be a Basis for Talks

Overview

• Putin said Russia would halt operations only if Ukrainian forces withdraw from areas Moscow claims, pledging to pursue objectives by force if they do not.
• He described the updated U.S. draft as a possible foundation for future accords while noting that key issues, including territorial recognition, still need negotiating.
• The White House’s special envoy Steve Witkoff is expected in Moscow next week for direct talks, and President Donald Trump said Jared Kushner may accompany him.
• The proposal has reportedly been pared from 28 to 19 points after U.S.–Ukrainian talks, leaving the status of occupied regions and security guarantees unresolved.
• Kyiv and European leaders continue to reject territorial concessions, as Putin reiterates demands regarding Donbas and Crimea and questions Volodymyr Zelensky’s legitimacy.