Putin Proposes Ceasefire in Current Frontline Area, First Sign of Willingness to Retreat from Military Action

BlockBeats News, April 23rd, according to the Financial Times, sources said Russian President Putin has proposed halting the attack on Ukraine's current front line as part of efforts to reach a peace deal with Trump. Three sources said Putin told Trump's emissary earlier this month that Moscow could give up its sovereignty claims over four parts of Ukraine that are currently under Kyiv's control.

The US has since proposed potential solutions, including Washington recognizing Russia's ownership of the Crimean Peninsula and at least acknowledging Russia's de facto control over parts of the four regions it currently controls.

This is the first time Putin has formally stated that Russia may abandon its highest military demand since the conflict erupted three years ago. However, European officials warn that Putin may use this apparent concession as bait to get Trump to accept Russia's other demands and impose them on Ukraine as a fait accompli. One official said, "Kyiv is currently under great pressure to give up some things so that Trump can declare victory." (FX168)