**Russia Prioritizes Long-Term Settlement in Ukraine**
The Kremlin is focusing on a long-term settlement over a temporary ceasefire in Ukraine, according to Russian presidential aide Yuri Ushakov. He made this statement on March 13, calling the US truce proposal a “respite for the Ukrainian military.”
**US Envoy Arrives in Moscow**
U.S. President Donald Trump’s special envoy to the Middle East, Steve Witkoff, has reportedly arrived in Moscow for talks on a proposed 30-day ceasefire in Ukraine. Russian President Vladimir Putin is expected to provide further comments on March 13.
**Russia Sees Ceasefire as Temporary**
“We believe that our goal is a long-term peaceful settlement,” Ushakov said on state television. “A peaceful settlement that takes into account the legitimate interests of our country and our known concerns.” He also stated that Russia sees the ceasefire proposal as nothing more than a temporary respite for the Ukrainian military.
**No Discussion on Ukraine’s NATO Accession**
Ushakov claimed that he outlined Russia’s position to U.S. National Security Advisor Mike Waltz, stating that Ukraine’s potential NATO accession cannot be part of the peace settlement debate. The Trump administration has previously called Kyiv’s prospects of joining the alliance unrealistic, while Russia has named a ban on Ukraine’s entry as one of the key conditions in any negotiations.
**US Officials in Moscow**
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov confirmed that US officials are in Moscow but did not disclose Russia’s position on the ceasefire proposal. The Trump administration has previously called for sanctions against Russia if Moscow refuses a proposed ceasefire, and US Senator Lindsey Graham has promised to introduce new congressional measures targeting Russia and nations that continue to buy Russian goods.
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