Ushakov: A temporary ceasefire is nothing more than giving Ukraine a chance to catch its breath.

Kremlin advisor Yuri Ushakov stated that the proposed ceasefire between Ukraine and Russia would provide Ukrainian forces with merely a breathing space. In comments following a phone call with U.S. National Security Advisor Waltz, Ushakov emphasized, "I made clear our position that the ceasefire is nothing more than a temporary respite for the Ukrainian army. It seems to me that no one needs steps that merely mimic peaceful actions in this situation."

During his discussion with Waltz, Ushakov reiterated Russia's need for a long-term agreement and expressed hope that the U.S. would consider Russia's demands for a resolution to the Ukraine crisis. He highlighted that Russia seeks a long-term compromise that takes into account its interests and concerns, and stated that Ukraine's NATO membership would not be up for discussion in the context of resolving the crisis.