Russia has firmly turned down a proposed 30-day ceasefire in Ukraine, emphasising its demand for a lasting peace settlement that addresses Moscow's core strategic interests. The rejection comes as Western nations, including the United States, urge an end to hostilities and seek temporary pauses in fighting to allow humanitarian relief and potential negotiations.

Russia Dismisses Ceasefire as Tactical Move by Ukraine

Yuri Ushakov, a senior aide to Russian President Vladimir Putin, dismissed the idea of a temporary truce, labelling it as a tactical maneuver to benefit Ukrainian forces. Speaking to Financial Times, Ushakov said, "Nobody needs steps that imitate peaceful actions in this situation," making it clear that Moscow does not see value in a short-term halt to fighting.

He added that such a ceasefire would amount to "nothing other than a temporary breather for Ukrainian troops." Instead, Russia insists on negotiating a long-term agreement that permanently resolves the conflict and secures its key demands.

Russia's Conditions for Lasting Peace

According to Ushakov, Russia’s vision for a durable settlement includes Ukraine formally recognising Russia’s annexation of Crimea and four southeastern Ukrainian regions. Moscow also demands a complete withdrawal of Ukrainian forces from these territories and a legally binding pledge from Ukraine never to join the NATO alliance.

Beyond territorial and military conditions, Russia is pushing for broader political and security assurances. These include imposing limits on Ukraine's military capabilities, ensuring protections for Russian-speaking communities within Ukraine, and conducting new elections to replace Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy. In addition, Russia wants NATO to reverse its eastward expansion since the end of the Cold War — a longstanding grievance of Moscow in its relationship with the West.

U.S.-Russia Diplomatic Engagement and Secret Talks

Amid the ongoing tensions, a plane reportedly linked to Steve Witkoff, a U.S. special envoy, was spotted landing in Moscow. However, Ushakov clarified that Witkoff is "not the primary envoy" for diplomatic discussions between the two nations. He also indicated that any future talks would remain confidential, describing them as "of a closed nature." Ushakov said he conveyed Russia’s expectations for a long-term settlement directly to U.S. National Security Adviser Mike Waltz, stressing that any agreement must fully address Russia’s "well-known concerns."

Russia’s Advances in Kursk Region and Ukraine's Position

While rejecting a ceasefire, Russia has made new military gains. Valery Gerasimov, Russia’s Chief of General Staff, announced that Russian forces have recaptured 86% of the territory in the Kursk region that Ukraine had previously seized. Gerasimov also reported the capture of 400 Ukrainian soldiers as part of these operations.

Meanwhile, following recent negotiations in Saudi Arabia, the United States has resumed military aid and intelligence-sharing efforts with Ukraine to support its defense against Russian advances.

Trump’s Warning and U.S. Pressure on Russia

Former U.S. President Donald Trump has weighed in on the situation, urging Moscow to agree to a ceasefire. Trump warned that if Russia refuses to pause the conflict, it could face significant financial repercussions. "Hopefully, we can get a ceasefire from Russia," Trump said, indicating his position on avoiding further escalation while signalling possible sanctions if Russia remains unyielding.

Russia’s outright rejection of a temporary ceasefire underscores its determination to secure a broader and binding peace settlement on its terms. By demanding Ukraine’s recognition of annexed territories, military neutrality and internal political changes, Moscow has set the bar high for any future negotiations. Meanwhile, as the U.S. resumes its military support for Ukraine and urges Russia to accept a ceasefire, the path toward de-escalation remains fraught with tension and uncertainty.