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Potential Tactic? Putin’s Offer to Freeze Ukraine War and its Implications for US Policy
An offer from Vladimir Putin to halt the conflict in Ukraine along the present battle lines may be a ploy to incline Donald Trump toward embracing broader Russian objectives, according to a source. The Russian leader reportedly proposed a ceasefire based on current frontlines during discussions with Steve Witkoff, an emissary of Mr. Trump’s. This development highlights the ongoing complexities and potential shifts in geopolitical strategies surrounding the Ukraine war and US involvement.
Unclear Demands and Potential Maneuvers
Putin’s Strategy
The source indicated it is unclear what additional demands Putin might present before agreeing to a peace settlement. The apparent Russian concession regarding territory could be a tactic designed to lure the United States into accepting other Russian conditions for peace. Putin has maintained that a cessation of hostilities must pave the way for lasting peace and address the “root causes” of the “crisis.”
Moscow’s Core Concerns
One of Moscow’s central concerns involves the possibility of Ukraine joining the NATO military alliance. Putin’s government has also challenged Ukrainian sovereignty, with the Russian president intent on extending his nation’s influence and power beyond its existing borders.
Ceasefire Proposals and Reactions
Initial Agreement and Concerns
Kyiv previously assented to a proposal for a 30-day truce following discussions with the US. In March, Putin expressed his approval but raised concerns about whether Ukraine would utilize the time to rearm, mobilize, or take neither action.
Zelensky’s Response
In response, Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky asserted that Putin was preparing to reject the proposal but was “afraid” to directly inform Mr. Trump of his desire to continue the war.
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Proposed Peace Agreements and Rejections
Trump Administration’s Proposal
Reports have since surfaced indicating that the Trump administration had suggested a framework that would permit Russia to retain control of occupied Ukrainian territory as part of a peace accord.
Zelensky’s Rejection
Mr. Zelensky dismissed this notion as unacceptable and ruled out the possibility of ceding Ukrainian territory to Russia.
US Stance and Warnings
Rubio’s Warning
US Foreign Secretary Marco Rubio has cautioned both parties that the United States will withdraw from mediating a peace agreement if substantial progress is not made expeditiously.
Vance’s Endorsement
Echoing these sentiments, US Vice President JD Vance stated that the proposal was “very fair” and would effectively “freeze the territorial lines at some level close to where they are today.”
Explicit Proposal
Mr. Vance cautioned that the US has issued a “very explicit proposal to both the Russians and the Ukrainians, and it’s time for them to either say yes or for the United States to walk away from this process.”
Trump’s Push for Resolution
President Trump, meanwhile, has advocated for an end to the war, stating last week that negotiations were “coming to a head.”
US Peace Proposal Details
Reports suggest the US peace proposal includes:
- Barring Ukraine from NATO membership
- Allowing the country to join the EU
- Lifting sanctions on Russia
- Deepening economic ties between the US and Russia
Challenges to Ceasefire and Ongoing Conflict
Achieving even a 30-day truce has proven elusive for negotiators, with both sides continuing to engage in attacks along a 620-mile frontline.
Some of Ukraine’s European allies are wary of the US proposal for Ukraine to exchange land for peace.
Entrenched Russian Control
An official said there is also acknowledgement by some allies that Russia is firmly entrenched wholly or partly in five regions of Ukraine — Crimea, Luhansk, Donetsk, Zaporizhzhia and Kherson.
French Perspective
A senior French official told The Associated Press that if the goal is to obtain a ceasefire immediately, then it should be based on the line of contact as it is.
The official was not authorised to be publicly named and spoke on the condition of anonymity according to French presidential policy.
British Expectations
Britain has downplayed expectations of a breakthrough at a meeting in London, emphasizing that this is a critical period for diplomatic efforts to halt the conflict.
That meeting was downgraded after Mr Rubio abruptly pulled out, citing an issue with his schedule.
Moscow’s Stance and Battlefield Momentum
Western analysts suggest that Moscow is not in a hurry to finalize peace negotiations, citing its current battlefield advantages and desire to seize additional Ukrainian territory.