Moscow launched strikes across Ukrainian cities hours after Putin said he was considering a pause on civilian targets.

An unusual public back-and-forth suggested that both sides in the war were eager to at least appear interested in negotiations.

The various reports suggested potential outlines of a U.S. proposal that could include a ceasefire along current frontlines, U.S. recognition of Russia's annexation of Crimea, Russia's relinquishing claims to the four Ukrainian provinces and an international force to monitor a ceasefire.