A temporary ceasefire in Ukraine is being proposed as a respite for Ukrainian troops, according to Yuri Ushakov, an aide to Russian President Vladimir Putin, RIA Novosti reports.
Ushakov stated that on March 12, he received a call from US National Security Advisor Mike Waltz, who briefed him on the results of US-Ukraine negotiations in Saudi Arabia.
"Russia does not want a temporary ceasefire; it is interested in a long-term settlement. The proposed truce is nothing more than a brief respite for Ukrainian troops. Steps that merely simulate peace efforts are useless to anyone," Yuri Ushakov said.
Ushakov emphasized that he had clearly conveyed Russia’s position, stating:
"I naturally commented on the agreement reached regarding a temporary ceasefire. I explained that this is nothing more than a pause for Ukrainian forces—nothing else."
On March 11, Ukraine expressed willingness to accept the US proposal for an immediate 30-day ceasefire, with reports indicating that the truce could be extended upon mutual agreement between Kyiv and Moscow.