Ceasefire helps Ukraine, Putin aide criticises

In a statement released Friday, a key aide to the Kremlin criticized the proposed ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine, suggesting it would merely serve as a temporary reprieve for Ukrainian forces.

Yuri Ushakov, speaking to state media following a phone conversation with US National Security Advisor Mike Waltz, dismissed the initiative as inadequate.

According to Ushakov, the ceasefire would only function as a "temporary breather for the Ukrainian military."

He indicated that Russian President Vladimir Putin is expected to provide a more detailed response to the proposal on Thursday.

Ushakov emphasized Russia's pursuit of a "long-term peaceful solution" that accommodates its "legitimate interests."

He noted that any measures perceived as superficial peace efforts were unnecessary under the current circumstances.

The remarks came in response to US negotiators' visit to Russia on Thursday, where they presented a plan advocating for a 30-day ceasefire in Ukraine.

The proposal is part of Washington's efforts to secure an "unconditional" halt to the three-year conflict, which continues to strain international relations.