Vladimir Putin lays out terms for Ukraine ceasefire

Russian President Vladimir Putin has laid out a number of conditions for a ceasefire in Ukraine, including the recognition of Russian sovereignty over Crimea, the demilitarization of Ukraine and the recognition of the independence of the self-proclaimed Donetsk and Luhansk People's Republics. Mr Putin made these remarks in a televised address to the nation, marking the first anniversary of the start of the conflict. He accused the West of "prolonging the conflict" and seeking to "inflict a strategic defeat on Russia". The Russian leader also announced a one-day ceasefire on Orthodox Christmas Day, which falls on 7 January, but Ukraine has dismissed this as a "propaganda stunt" and said it would not participate. Mr Putin's demands are likely to be rejected by Ukraine, which insists that the only way to end the conflict is for Russia to withdraw its forces from all occupied territories. The West has also condemned Mr Putin's conditions and pledged to continue supporting Ukraine. The situation remains highly volatile and the future of the conflict remains uncertain.

Summary

"Russian President Vladimir Putin has outlined terms for a ceasefire in Ukraine, including the recognition of Russian sovereignty over Crimea and the independence of the self-proclaimed Donetsk and Luhansk People's Republics. However, these demands are likely to be rejected by Ukraine, which insists on a complete withdrawal of Russian forces. The West has condemned Putin's conditions and expressed continued support for Ukraine. The future of the conflict remains uncertain."