In a recent telephone news briefing, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov expressed cautious optimism regarding the proposed ceasefire deal between Ukraine and Russia. This comes after talks between a U.S. envoy and Russian President Vladimir Putin in Moscow, where both sides expressed a desire for peace.
During the briefing, Peskov referenced Putin’s statement from Thursday where he showed qualified support for the U.S. proposal to halt Russia’s war with Ukraine for 30 days. However, Putin also highlighted the need for further clarification on some points. Peskov reiterated that there is still much work to be done, but Putin has expressed solidarity with U.S. President Donald Trump’s position.
Late-night talks were held on Thursday between Putin and U.S. special envoy Steve Witkoff, during which Putin conveyed additional information and signals to President Trump. The Kremlin spokesman further stated that both leaders have agreed to speak directly, and the timing of the conversation will be determined once Witkoff has conveyed the new information to Trump.
Trump himself also showed optimism on Friday morning, stating on his Truth Social website that there is a “very good chance” for the war to finally come to an end. He also mentioned that he had “strongly requested” Putin to spare the lives of thousands of Ukrainian troops who are currently surrounded by the Russian military in the Kursk border region. Trump described this potential scenario as a “horrible massacre,” one not seen since World War II.
In response to Trump’s request, Putin assured the National Security Council in Moscow that if the Ukrainian troops surrender and lay down their arms, they will not be killed. However, this information is in contrast to what the Ukrainian military has reported. They denied that their troops in Kursk were surrounded by Russian forces, stating that it is Russian manipulation.
In his address to the nation on Thursday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy referred to Putin’s comments to Witkoff as “manipulative.” He also expressed his belief that Putin’s conditional support for the U.S. plan is a tactic to reject it eventually. Zelenskyy stated that Putin is afraid to tell Trump that he wants to continue the war and kill Ukrainian citizens. He also emphasized that Ukraine has accepted the U.S. proposal and is prepared to implement monitoring and verification measures, while it is Russia that is complicating the process with its conditions.
While no discussions between Trump and Putin have been scheduled, White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt stated that this could change. She also described the talks held in Moscow on Thursday as “productive” for both the United States and the world in terms of peace.
During a meeting with NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte at the White House on Thursday, Trump stated that it would be “very disappointing” if Russia rejected the U.S. efforts to end the fighting. This sentiment has been echoed by many nations, including Britain.
In a report by Britain’s Defense Intelligence, it was stated that Russia’s prioritization of funding its war with Ukraine has led to insufficient funding for the average Russian’s healthcare. This has resulted in shortages of medical staff and equipment, with at least 160 hospitals, including 18 maternity facilities and 10 children’s clinics, being closed in 2024 alone. The report also highlighted the impact on small towns and villages in Russia.
According to the Defense Intelligence report, the war in Ukraine has caused over 500,000 casualties for Russia. This has undoubtedly put a strain on all levels of care within the Russian military medical system.
The proposed ceasefire deal between Ukraine and Russia has been met with cautious optimism from the Kremlin, despite some remaining questions and issues that need to be addressed. However, both sides have expressed a desire for peace and have taken steps towards dialogue and communication. With the support of other nations, including the United States, there is hope that the long-standing conflict between Ukraine and Russia can finally come to an end. Let us all continue to work towards a peaceful resolution and support the efforts of those working towards it.
