Russia criticises Ukraine’s push for ceasefire without broader peace plan

The Russian Foreign Ministry has expressed concern over Ukraine’s proposal to discuss only ceasefire during upcoming talks in Istanbul, warning that such an approach could hinder progress toward a comprehensive resolution to the conflict.

Russian Foreign Ministry’s official Rodion Miroshnik told reporters that Kyiv’s apparent reluctance to engage in broader negotiations on a political settlement is troubling, Caliber.Az reports via TASS.

“The only thing that causes me, of course, significant concern is that at least from the Ukrainian side there is a desire not to negotiate a settlement, but to negotiate a ceasefire regime. Because a ceasefire regime that is not written into the long-term effect settlement programme will naturally not suit the Russian side,” he said.

According to Miroshnik, Ukraine's proposed 30-day ceasefire could be used as an opportunity to strengthen its military positions, build new fortifications, resupply weapons, and regroup forces — actions he believes would lead to renewed escalation.

“That is, in order to reach a new escalation level in a month. Naturally, this movement is not towards a settlement, but in the opposite direction,” he said.

While Trump is pushing for a 30-day ceasefire to halt what has become Europe’s largest land war since World War Two, Putin wants the talks to first address the terms of any ceasefire before making commitments. Ukrainian officials say they are ready to back the 30-day truce.

At present, Russian forces occupy roughly one-fifth of Ukrainian territory. Despite growing international calls for compromise, Moscow has shown little willingness to make concessions. 

Putin has referenced the failed 2022 draft agreement, under which Ukraine would have accepted permanent neutrality in exchange for security guarantees from the five permanent UN Security Council members — Britain, China, France, Russia and the United States — along with other countries including Belarus, Canada, Germany, Israel, Poland and Türkiye.

However, Kyiv has made clear that any neutrality clause remains a non-starter. Ukrainian officials say such a concession is a red line they will not cross.

By Sabina Mammadli