Russian President Vladimir Putin questioned the United States-brokered proposal for a ceasefire in the Ukraine war on Thursday, setting forth tough conditions and demanding concessions from Kyiv despite saying he supported the proposal in theory.

France's President Emmanuel Macron looks on during an official welcome ceremony for Uzbekistan's President Shavkat Mirziyoyev at the Invalides in Paris, France March 12, 2025. LUDOVIC MARIN/Pool via REUTERS/File Photo PARIS (Reuters) - French President Emmanuel Macron said on Friday that Russia must accept a proposed 30-day ceasefire deal put forward by the United States and Ukraine.

Russian leaders comments signal that there will be difficult negotiations ahead that could frustrate President Donald Trump’s hope for a swift peace deal.

President Vladimir Putin of Russia yesterday seemed to voice preliminary support for a cease-fire, but made it clear he was in no hurry. He said he wanted to continue negotiating with President Trump, but told reporters in Moscow that Russia was in favor of a 30-day truce — with numerous conditions.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov says Russian President Vladimir Putin met with U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff to discuss details of the American proposal for a 30-day ceasefire in the war with Ukraine