A top Kremlin aide on Friday criticised the US-Ukrainian proposal for a ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine, saying it would just be a “breather” for the Ukrainian military.

“It would be nothing more than a temporary breather for the Ukrainian military,” Yuri Ushakov told state media after speaking by phone to US national security advisor Mike Waltz.

He said President Vladimir Putin would “probably make more specific and substantive assessments” on Thursday.

Ushakov also said that Russia was aiming for a “long-term peaceful solution” that would secure Russia’s “legitimate interests”.

“That is what we are striving for,” he said.

“Any steps that imitate peaceful action are I believe not needed by anyone in the current situation,” he said.

US negotiators travelled to Russia on Thursday to present their plan for a 30-day ceasefire in Ukraine, as Washington pushed Moscow for an “unconditional” pause to the three-year conflict.

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At least 17 soldiers from Malawi and South Africa have been killed in DR Congo. 

​At least 17 soldiers from Malawi and South Africa have been killed in DR Congo.  

Russian forces have regained control of Sudzha in the Kursk region from Ukrainian forces. This follows President Vladimir Putin’s visit, advocating for swift liberation, and coincides with U.S.-Ukrainian ceasefire talks. The regainment threatens Ukraine’s bargaining position amid ongoing negotiations.