Putin proposed a ceasefire in the current frontline area, stating for the first time that he might abandon the highest demand for military action.

according to the Financial Times, sources said that Russian President Putin has proposed to halt the attack on Ukraine on the current front line as part of efforts to reach a peace agreement with Trump. Three sources said that Putin told Trump's envoy earlier this month that Moscow could abandon its sovereignty claims over four parts of Ukraine that are still under Kiev's control. The US subsequently proposed possible solutions, including Washington recognizing Russia's ownership of the Crimean Peninsula, and at least recognizing Russia's actual control of some parts of the four areas it currently controls. This is the first time Putin has formally indicated that Russia may abandon its highest military demands since the conflict erupted three years ago. However, European officials warned that Putin may use this apparent concession as a bait to persuade Trump to accept other Russian demands and impose them on Ukraine as a fait accompli. One person said: "Kiev is currently under a lot of pressure to give up some things so that Trump can declare victory."