Moscow: Russian President Vladimir Putin has publicly addressed Ukraine's openness to negotiating a ceasefire for the first time, expressing appreciation for the efforts of global leaders, including US President Donald Trump, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, in seeking to resolve the conflict.
During a joint press conference with Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko on Thursday, Putin stated that Russia is supportive of proposals to halt hostilities but emphasized that any cessation must pave the way for lasting peace and address the underlying issues of the crisis.
When questioned about Ukraine's readiness for a ceasefire, Putin remarked, "Regarding Ukraine's willingness to agree to a ceasefire, I will share my perspective. However, I want to begin by expressing my gratitude to President Trump for his significant focus on the resolution of the Ukraine situation. Each of us has our own domestic matters to manage, yet many world leaders, including the President of China, the Prime Minister of India, and the Presidents of Brazil and South Africa, are dedicating considerable time to this issue. We appreciate their efforts, as they contribute to the vital goal of ending hostilities and preventing further loss of life."
He added, "We are in agreement with the proposals to cease hostilities, but we believe that this cessation must lead to enduring peace and resolve the fundamental causes of the crisis."
Additionally, he mentioned the recent discussions between the US and Ukraine in Saudi Arabia, implying that Ukraine's readiness for a ceasefire may have been influenced by pressure from the United States.
Regarding Ukraine's willingness to halt hostilities, Putin remarked, "At first glance, the meeting between the US and Ukraine in Saudi Arabia might suggest that Ukraine was compelled to make this decision by the United States. However, I firmly believe that the Ukrainian leadership should have proactively sought this decision from the Americans, given the current developments on the ground, as previously noted."
On March 11, Ukraine indicated its readiness to accept the US proposal for an "immediate, interim 30-day ceasefire," which could be extended through mutual agreement and is contingent upon Russia's acceptance and simultaneous implementation.
US President Donald Trump praised Ukraine's agreement to the ceasefire following the peace discussions in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, expressing hope that Russia would also concur. He emphasized the tragic loss of life among soldiers from both Russia and Ukraine in this "horrible war," stating that achieving a ceasefire is "very important."
Earlier in February, Prime Minister Modi commended Trump's initiatives to address the Russia-Ukraine conflict and reiterated India's belief that the resolution should come through negotiations.
He clarified that India's position is not neutral but firmly aligned with peace. The Prime Minister highlighted his meetings with leaders from both Russia and Ukraine and referenced his statement, made in the presence of President Putin, that "this is not an era of war."
"I have consistently maintained close communication with both Russia and Ukraine. I have engaged with the leaders of both nations. There is a common misconception that India is neutral, but I want to emphasize that India is not neutral; we stand for peace," PM Modi stated during a joint press conference at the White House.
He reiterated India's stance that a resolution to the conflict cannot be achieved through military means and commended President Donald Trump's initiatives in this regard.
"I stated publicly, in the presence of President Putin, that 'this is not a time of war.' I maintain that the answers to conflict cannot be discovered on the battlefield; ultimately, dialogue is essential," PM Modi expressed.
He continued, "India holds the view that a resolution to the war can only be reached when both parties, Russia and Ukraine, engage in discussions within a suitable forum. I support and welcome the efforts made by President Trump, and I hope for his swift success."
In July of the previous year, PM Modi visited Russia for the 22nd India-Russia Bilateral Summit and subsequently traveled to Ukraine in August.
During his meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, PM Modi underscored India's commitment to a peaceful resolution of the conflict through dialogue and diplomacy.
He affirmed that India is prepared to take an active role in fostering peace and progress. The conflict between Russia and Ukraine has persisted since February 2022.
