Russia Rejects U.S. 30-Day Ceasefire Proposal
Russia has rejected the U.S. proposal for a 30-day ceasefire to pause the ongoing war in Ukraine, with Kremlin foreign policy aide Yuri Ushakov describing it as merely a temporary break for Ukrainian forces. Speaking to the media, Ushakov said that the ceasefire "gives us nothing" and would only provide Ukrainian troops with a chance to regroup. He added that Russia is seeking a "long-term peaceful settlement" that respects its interests, dismissing short-term measures as ineffective. This position aligns with previous statements by Russian President Vladimir Putin, who has consistently called for a peace agreement that addresses Russia's concerns, rather than a brief pause in fighting.
The announcement comes ahead of important negotiations between U.S. and Russian officials, with U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff arriving in Moscow for talks. The United States has made it clear that it is pushing for a ceasefire to reduce the bloodshed and create space for a broader peace agreement. However, Russia's refusal to accept a temporary ceasefire signals that tough negotiations lie ahead, especially given the country's ongoing military advances in Ukraine, particularly in the Kursk region. Russia's forces are reportedly nearing the recapture of key areas, complicating efforts to secure an immediate truce.
As the situation intensifies, Ukraine’s strategic moves in the Kursk region, including a failed attempt to hold on to parts of the territory, show the shifting dynamics on the ground. While the U.S. aims for peace talks, Russia's conditions for a resolution remain strict, with Moscow insisting on territorial gains and rejecting any foreign peacekeepers on Ukrainian soil. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov reaffirmed that regions like Crimea and Donetsk are "regions of Russia," making it clear that these areas will not be up for negotiation.
