Zelensky Urges Russia to Choose the Simplest Path to End the War: “Stop Strikes on Civilian Infrastructure”
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has openly expressed his position regarding the possible cessation of the war, emphasizing the need for simple and understandable steps to reduce tension and prevent further significant destruction and human casualties. Appearing on social media, the head of state stated that Ukraine maintains an open proposal for Russia to cease all strikes on civilian objects and urged Moscow to sit at the negotiation table to find a real way out of the crisis. In his speech, Zelensky highlighted that the best, simplest, and most reliable way to stabilize the situation is to stop missile strikes and the use of long-range drones. According to the Ukrainian leader, this would automatically guarantee the preservation of civilian infrastructure, the lives of peaceful residents, and the recovery of mutual trust between the conflicting parties. The president noted that a ceasefire and the refusal to continue aggression should become the first tangible steps toward lasting and just peace. During his address, Zelensky mentioned that during the Easter holidays, air alerts in Ukraine were absent, and some front-line areas even experienced short periods of calm. "So, this is possible," he stated, emphasizing that reducing hostilities and lowering human casualties are entirely achievable if Russia decides to de-escalate tensions and stop attacking. At the same time, according to Zelensky, Ukraine continues to advocate for diplomatic resolution of the conflict and is prepared for any negotiations regarding security guarantees and stopping shelling. However, Russia has rejected these initiatives and, after Easter, has intensified shelling and attacks again, which significantly complicates the possibility of achieving peace. "Today, Russian attacks have increased significantly," Zelensky reported. "As of midday, there are nearly 3,000 reports of shelling, assaults, and strikes. Russia is using rockets, 'Shahed' drones, aerial bombs, heavy weaponry, and conducting combat operations across the entire front. This confirms that they do not wish to stop despite promises and a ceasefire." As a reminder, on the eve, Vladimir Putin announced a so-called "Easter ceasefire," which was supposedly to entail a halt to hostilities from the evening of April 19 until the night of April 21. Zelensky, in turn, calculated that during this time, more than 2,000 violations of the "peace" by Russian forces were recorded. In response, the Ukrainian leader proposed extending the ban on long-range strikes for another 30 days, considering it an important step toward reducing bloodshed and creating conditions for peace negotiations. All these conclusions about ceasefire and diplomatic resolution underscore that the Ukrainian authorities regard them as the most critical conditions for returning to peaceful life and stabilizing the situation. The question remains open about Russia’s response and its willingness to engage in serious dialogue, as without equal and constructive cooperation, any steps remain uncertain.