This story was originally published by the WND News Center.

'The idea itself is the right one and we definitely support it'

WASHINGTON – Russian President Vladimir Putin signaled Thursday he is open to a ceasefire in Ukraine. This comes as American and Ukrainian representatives met earlier this week in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, to discuss a possible peace deal.

Putin made his remarks in Moscow, where American officials currently are meeting with Russians to discuss a peace agreement which Ukrainians have already greenlit.

"The idea itself is the right one, and we definitely support it," Putin said of a potential break in fighting. He also said there are "questions" that need to be discussed before Russia signs on. "I think that we need to talk them through with our American colleagues and partners."

Those questions include the logistics of monitoring the ceasefire, and whether Ukraine will be allowed to stockpile arms during the break in fighting. These things will take a great deal of time to sort out. Still, this first public acknowledgment of a ceasefire by Putin is a major step toward United States President Donald Trump's ultimate goal – stopping the killing on both sides.

Kremlin officials previously had said they would respond to ceasefire talks only after meeting bilaterally with Americans. They wanted more details on the Trump administration's plan for a compromise.

The New York Times and other outlets are reporting that Putin is expected to meet with Steve Witkoff later Thursday. Witkoff – Mr. Trump's Middle East envoy – was instrumental in negotiating the ongoing ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. It is the administration's hope that he can work similar magic in brokering this deal in Eastern Europe.