Russian President Vladimir Putin stated that Moscow supports the U.S. ceasefire proposal in Ukraine but has "serious issues" to discuss with Washington, possibly directly with President Donald Trump.

Putin said he was "in favour" of the proposal for a 30-day ceasefire "but that there are nuances" and that there were "serious questions" about how it would work, AFP reported.

"I think we have to talk to our American counterparts. Maybe have a phone call with President Trump and discuss this with him," he told a news conference in Moscow on the joint US-Ukrainian plan for a 30-day ceasefire.

He argued that any ceasefire in Ukraine should lead to a long-term settlement and address the root causes of the conflict.

"We agree with the proposals for a cessation of hostilities, but on the condition that this cessation will lead to long-term peace and address the root causes of the crisis," the Russian head of state said.

Russian troops are advancing in almost all parts of the front line in Ukraine, he pointed out.

Putin said he would decide the "next steps" regarding a ceasefire in Ukraine based on the success of his forces in pushing Ukrainian troops out of the Kursk border region.

The Russian president praised the troops who have made rapid gains there in recent days, then said, "Based on how the situation on the ground develops, we will agree on the next steps to end the conflict and reach agreements acceptable to all." | BGNES