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Russian President Vladimir Putin confirmed on Thursday his support for a 30-day truce in Ukraine, although he expressed concerns about its implementation and verification.
The Russian leader indicated that he hopes to discuss the details with his American counterpart, Donald Trump, to whom he expressed gratitude for his "efforts" to achieve the ceasefire, according to EFE.
"We are in favor, but there are obstacles," declared Putin at a press conference in the Kremlin alongside the President of Belarus, Alexandr Lukashenko.
Among the concerns mentioned, Putin questioned what will happen to Ukrainian soldiers in the Russian region of Kursk and whether they will have to leave the territory without confrontation. "Should we let them leave after they have committed numerous crimes against the civilian population? Or will the Ukrainian leaders order them to lay down their arms and surrender? How will we do this? It's not clear," he stated.
The Russian leader also noted that his country's troops are advancing in various sectors of the front line and questioned how Ukraine would use the truce. "Will it serve to continue the forced mobilization and the deployment of new weapons?" he asked.
Furthermore, he raised doubts about who will ensure that the other side will not take advantage of the ceasefire to regroup. "How will control and verification be organized?" he insisted.
Putin emphasized the importance of discussing the implementation of a ceasefire with the United States following the agreement reached by Washington and Kiev in the Saudi city of Jeddah.
"It is possible that President Trump and I will talk on the phone and discuss it together. But we both support the idea of ending the conflict through peaceful means," he stated.
He also expressed his gratitude to Trump for his diplomatic efforts in seeking a resolution to the conflict. "I would like to start by expressing my gratitude to the President of the United States, Mr. Trump, for paying such close attention to the solution of the Ukraine issue," he added.
The statement comes after Ukraine accepted last Tuesday the proposal from the United States to establish a total and immediate ceasefire with Russia, initially lasting 30 days with the possibility of extension if both parties agree.
The measure, which encompasses operations on land, sea, and air, depends on the response of the Russian president.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Ceasefire in Ukraine and the Role of Trump and Putin
What does the 30-day ceasefire in Ukraine entail?
The 30-day ceasefire entails a complete suspension of military operations on land, sea, and air, both by Ukraine and Russia, with the possibility of extension if both parties agree. The measure aims to facilitate broader peace negotiations, although its success hinges on the implementation and verification of the cessation of hostilities.
What is Donald Trump's role in the peace process between Ukraine and Russia?
Donald Trump has played an active role as a mediator in the peace process, facilitating negotiations between Ukraine and Russia. He has collaborated on proposing a ceasefire and has held conversations with both leaders, seeking to move towards a peaceful solution to the conflict.
What concerns has Putin expressed regarding the ceasefire in Ukraine?
Putin has expressed concerns about the implementation and verification of the ceasefire, questioning how the withdrawal of Ukrainian soldiers from the Russian region of Kursk will be managed and whether the truce will be used by Ukraine to mobilize more troops or weapons. He has also noted the need to discuss these details with Trump.
How has Ukraine responded to the ceasefire proposal?
Ukraine has accepted the ceasefire proposal put forth by the United States, contingent upon acceptance by Russia, and has shown readiness to halt hostilities if Russia does the same. President Zelensky has emphasized that Ukraine is ready for peace, but expects Russia to demonstrate the same willingness.
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