"We agree with the propositions to stop hostilities. Let me proceed from the fact that such ceasefire should be such that would lead to permanent peace and remove the initial original causes of the crisis,

The remarks by the Russian leader suggested he wanted to draw out negotiations or make a truce impossible. Ukraine’s leader called the response to a cease-fire plan “manipulative.”

The Russian president, who carefully cultivates his image in the media, dressed in camouflage when visiting Kursk.