Putin contemplates ceasefire in Ukraine, demands front-line recognition

Four Russian sources claim that Vladimir Putin is ready to freeze the war in Ukraine, Reuters reported on Friday. According to the agency's sources, the dictator would agree to a ceasefire under one condition.

Informants emphasized that the dictator could negotiate a ceasefire, recognizing the current front lines. This means that the Russians would not withdraw from the territories they occupied after the brutal invasion began in 2022.

However, Kyiv stated that negotiations would begin when Moscow agreed to return to the status quo before the war erupted.

Three Russian sources contacted by Reuters noted that Putin "expressed frustration" during talks with his advisors regarding the "West's support of attempts to hinder negotiations." The dictator also pointed out Volodymyr Zelensky's statement that he would not conduct peace talks with Moscow as long as Putin remains in power.

"Putin can fight as long as necessary, but Putin is also ready for a ceasefire—freezing the war," a person who worked with the dictator, quoted by Reuters, said.

Dmitry Peskov, Putin's press secretary, responded to a request for comment on the agency's findings. He noted that the Russian leader had repeatedly declared earlier that his country is "open to dialogue." He emphasized that the Kremlin does not intend to wage an "eternal war."

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Defense of Ukraine did not comment on the matter.

Anonymous Reuters sources stressed that Putin would like to exploit the Russian army's current advantage on the front. The dictator believes the gains achieved are sufficient to present the war as a "victory" to the citizens.