Russia Hesitates on US-Ukraine Ceasefire Proposal as Sanctions Loom
Putin signals interest in a temporary ceasefire but outlines conditions, while Trump threatens severe sanctions if Moscow resists.
- Ukraine has agreed to a US-brokered 30-day ceasefire plan, contingent on Russia's acceptance and adherence to the terms.
- Russian President Vladimir Putin has expressed conditional support for the ceasefire, citing 'nuances' such as restrictions on Ukraine's military activity during the pause.
- US President Donald Trump has warned of 'devastating' sanctions if Russia fails to commit to the ceasefire, while Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has called for increased pressure on Moscow.
- Putin's tactics, including raising detailed preconditions, are seen by analysts as an effort to delay or undermine the ceasefire agreement.
- US envoy Steve Witkoff has traveled to Moscow for further negotiations, with the outcome likely to influence the next steps in the peace process.