Russia Rules Out Ceasefire in Ukraine Without Comprehensive Peace Agreement

LONDON — Russia has stated it will not suspend military operations in Ukraine until a comprehensive peace agreement is established. In an interview with The Wall Street Journal, Andrei Kelin, the Russian Ambassador to the UK, expressed skepticism about the U.S. proposal for a temporary 30-day ceasefire, citing past negotiations that yielded little progress.

Kelin noted that while Russia is open to discussions, any cessation of hostilities is contingent upon a legally binding treaty acceptable to all parties. He recalled that earlier negotiations had resulted in a draft agreement, with Russia withdrawing troops from Kyiv and Chernihiv regions as a gesture of goodwill. However, the Ukrainian side subsequently refused to sign, undermining trust in future initiatives.

These remarks come amid intensified diplomatic efforts following the inauguration of the Donald Trump administration, which has pledged to expedite an end to the conflict. Reports indicate that U.S. representatives held consultations with European and Middle Eastern partners in early March 2025 to explore a peace framework. A meeting in Saudi Arabia included U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff and Ukrainian officials, among others.

Nonetheless, the proposed 30-day ceasefire has not received support from Moscow. Russian authorities demand recognition of current territorial claims, including Crimea and Donbass, and insist on the demilitarization of Ukraine. In contrast, the Ukrainian leadership, supported by European allies, rejects concessions, insisting on the complete withdrawal of Russian forces and restoration of all territories within the 1991 borders.