March 14, 2025
We agree with the proposal to cease hostilities but we have to bear in mind that this ceasefire must be aimed at a long-lasting peace and it must look at the root causes of the crisis.
Russian President Vladimir Putin responding Thursday to the proposed 30-day ceasefire.
Why It Matters: If the proposed ceasefire goes into effect, it would mark the first pause in fighting in Ukraine in three years — a significant shift in the war. Ukraine agreed to the ceasefire Wednesday, pending Russia’s acceptance. In a media conference Thursday, President Putin stated that while he agrees with the “idea” of a ceasefire, “there are issues that we need to discuss.” Among them, he mentioned concerns over Ukraine using the 30 days to continue recruiting and training soldiers, the process for releasing soldiers from the front lines and enforcement of the ceasefire. He also called for potential discussions with President Donald Trump and Russia’s allies. President Trump said that while he agrees to speak with President Putin, it will be a “very disappointing moment for the world” if Russia does not agree to the ceasefire.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy responded to Russia’s concerns Thursday evening, saying, “We see this as yet another round of Russian manipulation. There was a U.S. proposal for an unconditional ceasefire — in the air, at sea, and on the front lines. We in Ukraine accepted this proposal. We have heard from the American side that there is readiness to organize monitoring and verification. And this is absolutely feasible — with American and European capabilities.”
Read More: Putin lays out sweeping questions and tough demands about 30-day ceasefire proposal (CNN)
by Stephanie Wagner, based in Florida
