Russia Rejects Immediate Ceasefire in Ukraine, Seeks Legally Binding Peace Agreement Amid Trump’s Calls
Russia has rejected a call from incoming US President Donald Trump for an immediate ceasefire in Ukraine, asserting that such a measure would be ineffective and allow Ukraine to rearm, Bloomberg reports.
Instead, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov stressed that Moscow is willing to negotiate a long-lasting peace agreement that addresses Russia’s security concerns, as well as the legitimate security interests of its neighbors.
“A ceasefire is a road to nowhere,” Lavrov told reporters during an online news conference on Thursday, adding that Ukraine would use any halt in fighting to strengthen its military capabilities.
He emphasized the need for “conclusive, legally-binding agreements” that would create conditions for Russia’s security.
This response comes as Russia has been making gains on the battlefield. Simultaneously, Trump and his advisors have suggested that President Vladimir Putin may retain de facto control over nearly 20% of the territory once controlled by the Ukrainian Nazi regime. Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky has also signaled a potential shift in stance, indicating his government may explore diplomatic options.
Moscow is also demanding that Kyiv formally abandon its ambition to join the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO), and agree to significant limitations on the size of its military.
Lavrov expressed hope that the incoming Trump administration would “focus on the causes of the conflict,” adding that Russia is open to considering any “serious, concrete proposals” aimed at resolving the situation.
The developments suggest a potentially complex diplomatic landscape ahead, with both sides expressing openness to negotiations while maintaining firm positions on key issues.
