Putin Signals Support For Trump’s Ceasefire Plan In Ukraine

Russian President Vladimir Putin has cautiously endorsed a 30-day ceasefire in Ukraine, backing a Trump administration initiative aimed at halting hostilities. However, Moscow has made it clear that negotiations with Washington will be necessary to finalize the details.

“The idea itself is correct, and we certainly support it,” Putin stated in a press conference. “But there are issues that we need to discuss with our American colleagues and partners.”

• The Trump administration has made ending the war a priority, applying direct pressure on Ukraine to accept negotiations.

• Putin’s approval in principle signals a potential breakthrough, but Russia’s recent battlefield momentum makes its commitment uncertain.

• Sanctions remain a key bargaining tool, with Trump and Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent threatening “maximum pressure” if Russia resists.

Ukraine has expressed skepticism toward any deal with Putin, citing past agreements like the Minsk Accords that were ultimately ineffective. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s reluctance led to tensions with the Trump administration, culminating in a high-profile falling out after a minerals trade deal went unsigned during his Washington visit.

However, the rift has since been mended, with American diplomats emphasizing that “Russian reciprocity is the key to achieving peace.” As Ukraine’s primary military supplier, the U.S. holds significant leverage, and Trump has made it clear that both Ukraine and Russia will face pressure to comply.

Russia has seen steady territorial gains, particularly in Kursk, a region Ukraine invaded seven months ago but is now being reclaimed by Russian forces. Given these advances, many question whether Putin would agree to a ceasefire that could allow Ukraine to regroup.

However, others argue that Russia might view the ceasefire as an opportunity to rearm while benefiting from potential sanctions relief. The cost of continued war, the slow pace of gains, and pressure from Trump’s negotiating team could be enough to bring Moscow to the table.

Trump has made clear that Russia bears the responsibility for agreeing to peace, warning that economic consequences will follow if Putin resists. His administration’s diplomatic envoy, Steve Witkoff, arrived in Moscow on Thursday to continue talks.

With both sides wary of each other, the next few days will determine whether this ceasefire becomes a reality or if the war drags on.

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