Moscow/IBNS, March 13 -- A top aide of Vladimir Putin Friday criticised the US-Ukrainian proposal for a 30-day ceasefire between Russia and Kyiv, saying it would just be a "breather" for the Ukrainian military, media reports said,

"It would be nothing more than a temporary breather for the Ukrainian military," Yuri Ushakov told state media as reported by AFP.

He made the remarks after speaking to US national security advisor Mike Waltz over the phone.

Ushakov also said that Russia aimed 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 neg...