Kremlin Expresses Cautious Optimism over Prospects of Ceasefire, but Challenges Remain

The Kremlin has indicated that Russian President Vladimir Putin has sent a message to former US President Donald Trump following recent talks on a proposed ceasefire in Ukraine. The proposal, put forward by Trump’s special envoy, Steve Witkoff, suggests a 30-day ceasefire, which has already been accepted by Kyiv. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov shared that Putin expressed “signals” to Trump through Witkoff, and there are grounds for “cautious optimism” moving forward.

According to Peskov, President Putin showed some support for Trump’s position on a potential resolution to the conflict, although he raised questions that still need addressing. While Putin stated his backing for Trump’s settlement approach, he noted that “a lot remains to be done,” highlighting the complexities of the situation.

Despite the cautious optimism, UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy criticised any potential conditions Putin might impose on the ceasefire, describing it as “wrong.” Lammy stressed that a temporary ceasefire should pave the way for broader negotiations, aimed at a comprehensive peace settlement that guarantees Ukraine’s security and sovereignty.

During a recent press conference, Putin affirmed that the idea of a ceasefire was “correct” but emphasised that critical discussions with the US were still necessary to address underlying issues. Meanwhile, President Zelensky of Ukraine has accused Putin of attempting to attach preconditions to the ceasefire to undermine the potential for peace.

Trump, on his part, expressed hopes that Russia would eventually agree to the ceasefire, stating that failure to do so would be a “very disappointing moment for the world.” US National Security Adviser Mike Waltz suggested that territorial exchanges, including the Donbas region, might form part of a peace agreement.

The road to lasting peace remains uncertain, with both sides continuing to negotiate and assess their positions.