Putin Aide Rejects Short-Term Ceasefire as Trump’s Envoy Arrives in Moscow for Talks

A representative for Vladimir Putin rejected the notion of a short-term ceasefire with Kyiv, describing it as “merely a temporary respite” for Ukraine.

This follows Donald Trump’s envoy, Steve Witkoff, visiting Moscow in preparation for US-Russia discussions regarding a proposed 30-day ceasefire.

Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky suggests that Russia’s lack of official response to the proposal indicates its disinterest in pursuing peace.

Meanwhile, Putin and Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko are currently meeting at the Kremlin and are anticipated to hold a media briefing soon.

Earlier, the Kremlin announced that it had entered the final stage of its operation to expel Ukraine from territory in Kursk. This development came after Putin’s unexpected visit on Wednesday.

Here’s an alternative version: Volodymyr Zelensky has noted that Russia has not yet provided a substantial response to the proposed temporary ceasefire.

The Ukrainian president stated on social media that this indicates Russia’s intention to extend the war and delay peace for as long as they can.

He expresses hope that US pressure will effectively compel Russia to cease the war.

Zelensky emphasizes that his team is ready to keep working constructively with partners in America, Europe, and worldwide who are dedicated to advancing peace.

We traveled from Saudi Arabia to Quebec for the G7 meeting, where discussions occurred between American and Ukrainian representatives.

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio is now urging for a prompt ceasefire.

I believe we will witness a disagreement between the G7 countries and the US regarding the wording of any joint statement they may release.

While the Europeans have generally welcomed the ceasefire, they remain steadfast in their stance that Russia is the aggressor in this conflict.

Nevertheless, Rubio has expressed that he prefers to avoid any hostile language in potential communications.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky shared information about the discussions his delegation held with U.S. representatives in Saudi Arabia earlier this week.

In a post on X, he mentions that the “conversation was entirely constructive” and further adds that Ukraine is dedicated to swiftly advancing towards peace.

Zelensky stated that his representatives informed US officials of Ukraine’s willingness to implement a ceasefire in the air and at sea, but the US suggested expanding it to include land operations as well.

“Ukraine welcomes this proposal,” he continues, noting that “monitoring such a ceasefire remains crucial.” He expresses gratitude for America’s “willingness to organize the technical aspects of this oversight.”