Putin Vows to Spare Ukraine If They Surrender
Russian President Vladimir Putin has declared that Ukrainian forces in the western Kursk region will be spared if Kyiv orders them to surrender. His statement follows an urgent appeal by U.S. President Donald Trump, who warned of a potential “horrible massacre” if the conflict continues.
Ukraine has denied that its forces in Kursk are encircled, dismissing Russia’s claims as misinformation. However, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy acknowledged the challenges his troops face, describing the situation as “very difficult.”
Trump took to social media to express his concerns, urging Putin to avoid mass casualties. “I have strongly requested President Putin to spare the lives of thousands of Ukrainians who are completely surrounded and vulnerable. This would be a horrible massacre, one not seen since World War II,” Trump stated.
In response, Putin addressed his Security Council, stating that he had acknowledged Trump’s appeal. “If the Ukrainian troops lay down their arms and surrender, they will be guaranteed life and decent treatment in accordance with international law and the laws of the Russian Federation,” Putin declared. However, he emphasized that an official surrender order must come from Ukraine’s leadership.
Tensions Escalate as Russia Advances
The Russian military has intensified operations in Kursk, reversing territorial gains made by Ukraine last year. Russian forces have also advanced into the Sumy region, further heightening tensions between the two nations.
As fighting escalates, diplomatic efforts have intensified. Trump’s Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, recently met with Putin in Moscow to discuss a U.S. proposal for a 30-day ceasefire. Kyiv has indicated willingness to accept the proposal, while Putin has expressed conditional support, demanding further negotiations before agreeing to a truce.
Trump characterized the discussions as “very good and productive” and expressed optimism that the war could soon come to an end. “There is a very good chance that this horrible, bloody war can finally be over,” he said.
Ceasefire Talks and Political Ramifications
Zelenskyy has called on the U.S. and other allies to exert pressure on Moscow, stating, “Right now, we have a good chance to end this war quickly and secure peace. We have solid security understandings with our European partners.”
However, skepticism remains over Russia’s commitment to peace. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov confirmed that Putin conveyed key messages to Trump via Witkoff but noted that negotiations would continue. “There are certainly reasons to be cautiously optimistic,” Peskov stated, adding that Putin had raised questions requiring further discussions.
Putin has previously outlined his demands for a lasting ceasefire, which include Ukraine abandoning its NATO ambitions, Russian control over four annexed Ukrainian regions, limitations on Ukraine’s military size, the lifting of Western sanctions, and the scheduling of presidential elections in Ukraine—conditions Kyiv has rejected.
A Pivotal Moment in the Conflict
Former British ambassador to Russia, Tony Brenton, remarked that while the war initially proved disastrous for Russia, it has also drained the Kremlin’s financial resources, making Putin eager to find a resolution that is palatable to the Russian public.
“There are concerns on the Russian side as well. They are currently winning in Kursk and may want to complete their operations before committing to a ceasefire. Additionally, ceasefires do not automatically halt all hostilities—it requires a robust mechanism for enforcement,” Brenton told Al Jazeera.
“Nonetheless, there is a real possibility that we will see a ceasefire agreement in the coming weeks, followed by further negotiations for a long-term peace settlement,” he added.
As the international community watches closely, the next steps taken by Ukraine, Russia, and the United States will determine whether this war continues or finally reaches a resolution.
In other news: Ukraine Ready for 30-Day Ceasefire as US Pushes Russia to Respond
Putin Vows to Spare Ukraine If They Surrender