Putin backs ceasefire with call for long-term peace plan
During the press conference, Vladimir Putin made a significant declaration. "We agree with the proposals for the ceasefire, but our position is based on the assumption the ceasefire will lead to a long-term peace," said the Russian President.
After the Russian-Belarusian talks, Putin was asked about Ukraine's readiness to end the war. The Russian President highlighted the role that the Americans played in the discussions.
"I would like to thank the President of the United States for paying so much attention to resolving the conflict in Ukraine," Putin emphasized.
"Secondly, we agree with the proposals for a ceasefire, but our position is based on the assumption that the ceasefire will lead to long-term peace, something that will remove the root causes of the crisis," Putin reiterated.
"Regarding Ukraine's readiness for a ceasefire, there was a meeting between Americans and Ukrainians in Saudi Arabia, and it seems that the decision was made by the Ukrainian side under American pressure," he stated.
Putin on the situation in Kursk
Vladimir Putin also addressed the situation in the Kursk region, describing the Ukrainians' situation there as "dramatic."
"A few weeks ago, Ukrainians tried to leave the area in small groups, but today it is not possible. Now they are attempting to leave in groups of 2-3 people because everything is under our control. They have completely abandoned their equipment. If a physical blockade of this region occurs within the next few days, leaving will be completely impossible. There will be two ways to leave, either die or surrender. In this context, I think it would be beneficial if the Ukrainian side agreed to a ceasefire for at least 30 days," added the Russian President.
Putin raises questions
The Russian President stated that there are too many unknowns in the proposal for a 30-day ceasefire. He also expressed concern that this time will be used by the Ukrainians for mobilization.
"If we halt our military actions for 30 days, it means that all the people who are there, military personnel and Ukrainians alike, will have the opportunity to leave without a fight. We will let all those who committed crimes go. How will we solve other problems along the entire front line? And that's about 600 miles. The Russian military is now on the offensive in all areas of the front, creating conditions where they will block or encircle large Ukrainian formations. So how are they going to use these 30 days? Will they continue forced mobilization in Ukraine, supply weapons to these areas, and train the newly mobilized units?" pondered the Russian leader.
"Russia or Belarus was not the main reason for what is happening there now. Shortly after the conflict began, we said, 'Let's end this war.' And we spoke to Volodymyr Zelensky: 'Let's not seek guilty parties, let's end it now, because later you will have to take responsibility for the war and the territory of Ukraine.' I have always said that he is inexperienced and was simply forced to participate in this war," Lukashenko echoed him.
