Moscow, Russia – March 13, 2025 - Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed support for U.S. President Donald Trump’s ceasefire proposal aimed at halting the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, according to a statement made on Thursday. Speaking during a public address, Putin described the idea as “good” and indicated Russia’s willingness to pursue peace through diplomatic channels, though he emphasized that “many details need to be sorted out” and negotiations with American counterparts are necessary.
“So the idea is good, and we absolutely support it, but there are issues we need to discuss, and I think we need to negotiate with our American colleagues and partners,” Putin said. The Russian leader also hinted at the possibility of a direct phone call with Trump to further discuss the proposal, signaling a potential shift in relations amid the three-year war.
The ceasefire proposal, reportedly a 30-day truce backed by Ukraine and proposed by the U.S., was mentioned by Trump earlier this week, where he described the conflict as a “bloodbath” and expressed hope that Russia would agree to end the violence. Putin thanked Trump for his efforts to resolve the war, though he stressed that any ceasefire must address the “root causes” of the conflict—a position that aligns with Russia’s ongoing territorial claims in Ukraine, where its forces control nearly a fifth of the country’s territory.
Reactions on social media were mixed but largely focused on the prospect of peace. Users expressed optimism, with comments like “We all want peace. Let’s do it!” and “Wonderful news! How could anyone be unhappy with the prospect of peace?” However, skepticism also emerged, with some stating, “I do not trust Putin or Zelenskyy, but the war needs to end,” and others suggesting Putin’s overtures might reflect “desperation” due to reported military losses, including over 200,000 casualties and equipment shortages.
The development comes as Russian forces continue their advances, including a recent seizure of the town of Sudzha in Ukraine’s Kursk region. Meanwhile, Ukraine and Western allies have maintained that any ceasefire must include a full withdrawal of Russian troops from Ukrainian territory, a demand echoed by international leaders who argue Putin could end the war “immediately” by withdrawing his forces and negotiating.
Diplomatic efforts to resolve the conflict have intensified since Trump’s return to leadership, with the U.S. shifting focus to ensure aid contributes to a “solution” rather than prolonging the war. Other global players have also called for peace negotiations, though disagreements persist over territorial concessions, particularly regarding Crimea.
As of now, it remains unclear whether Putin’s willingness to engage with Trump will lead to concrete progress or if deeper geopolitical tensions will stall negotiations. The prospect of a Putin-Trump call has sparked debate among analysts, with some viewing it as a strategic move by Russia to exploit leadership changes, while others see it as a genuine opportunity for de-escalation.
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