European Union member states are expressing outrage over the latest developments in Ukraine, as Russian President Vladimir Putin surprisingly announces his willingness to accept a ceasefire mediated by Brussels. However, EU officials are skeptical that Putin's sudden change of heart will translate into concrete action on the ground. The EU's frustration stems from concerns that Putin's proposal is a tactical ploy to buy time and gain a strategic advantage in the ongoing conflict. As the international community continues to grapple with the humanitarian crisis in Ukraine, the EU's response to Putin's offer will be closely watched to see if it can bring a genuine end to the fighting.
Anger of EU states won't help smooth the way for Brussels to mediate a ceasefire, an idea Putin now says he accepts.
