Russian President Vladimir Putin has firmly rejected proposals for an immediate ceasefire in Ukraine, citing concerns that such a pause could be exploited by Ukraine to rearm and strengthen its position. Speaking at the Shanghai Cooperation Organization summit in Astana, Kazakhstan, Putin emphasized the need for ‘irreversible and acceptable agreements’ from Ukraine before considering any halt to military operations.Putin referenced past failed agreements, including those reached in Istanbul in March 2022, which he claims were discarded. He stated, ‘We cannot simply declare a ceasefire, hoping that the other side will take some positive steps’. The Russian leader also expressed skepticism about third-party mediation, including an offer from Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan.Meanwhile, reports suggest that Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban may visit Moscow to meet with Putin. This potential meeting has raised concerns within the European Union, as Orban, known for his pro-Russian stance, has no mandate to represent the EU’s position on the Ukraine conflict. European Council President Charles Michel emphasized that ‘Russia is the aggressor and Ukraine is the victim’.Putin also commented on former US President Donald Trump’s statements about ending the war in Ukraine quickly, saying Russia takes such declarations ‘very seriously’. However, Putin admitted he is not familiar with the specifics of Trump’s proposals.As the conflict continues, Putin has indicated that Russia may be willing to consider adjustments to its peace proposals for Ukraine, potentially during talks with Orban. However, these adjustments are likely to be in non-critical areas where Moscow is willing to make concessions, and a breakthrough in Russian-Ukrainian negotiations is not expected.
Key points
- Putin rejects immediate ceasefire proposals, citing concerns about Ukraine rearming.
- Potential visit by Hungarian PM Orban to Moscow raises concerns within the EU.
- Putin takes Trump’s statements about ending the war ‘seriously’ but is unfamiliar with specifics.
- Russia may consider adjustments to its peace proposals, but a breakthrough is unlikely.
Contradictions👾While Putin expresses skepticism about third-party mediation, he also welcomes mediation efforts by Turkish President Erdogan.
👾Putin claims to take Trump’s statements seriously, but also admits to not being familiar with Trump’s specific proposals.
