President Volodymyr Zelensky sharply rejected the initiative of the President of the Russian Federation, Vladimir Putin, regarding the declaration of a short-term ceasefire for three days—from May 7 to May 9

Chas Pravdy - 03 May 2025 12:10

According to him, this proposal should be viewed as a theatrical performance aimed at creating the illusion of Russia’s exit from isolation and easing international pressure. Instead, the Ukrainian leader insists on a longer ceasefire duration of 30 days, which would allow stabilizing the situation on the front and initiating real negotiations. Zelensky conveyed his position during a recent closed-door conversation with journalists, and according to sources cited by the Interfax-Ukraine agency, European and American diplomats have repeatedly advocated for such a ceasefire model to provide time for evacuating the wounded, deploying humanitarian corridors, and starting constructive negotiations. The head of the Ukrainian state clearly emphasized that an unconditional and sustained ceasefire is a key aspect in seeking a peaceful resolution to the conflict. “The model proposed by the Americans envisions exactly such an unconditional ceasefire,” he explained. Zelensky stated that Ukraine is willing to pursue this path, but he underscored that it should not be a matter of just a few days, but of a longer period to realistically assess the situation and secure necessary agreements. “Of course, it would be desirable to start this as soon as possible—either from today or another date,” the Ukrainian president added. In this context, he emphasized that a three-, five-, or seven-day ceasefire is insufficient for achieving real agreements and creating conditions for stable peace. Therefore, Zelensky advocates for a 30-day period—a timeframe that offers a chance not only for temporary quiet but also for a significant diplomatic breakthrough. The position of Ukrainian leadership remains consistent and balanced—that a war ceasefire should be long-term and fundamental. However, achieving sustainable peace requires not just signing agreements but also ensuring their implementation, which currently remains the most challenging phase of the negotiation process. Meanwhile, Moscow continues to insist on a short-term ceasefire, attempting to use it for its strategic goals, which meets strong opposition from the Ukrainian side. Thus, the Ukrainian president clearly outlines his approach: a long-term and unconditional truce is key to the possible diplomatic activity in winter or spring, while short-term ceasefire declarations are merely tactical moves in hybrid warfare designed only to create an illusion of peace. For now, Zelensky’s entire strategy remains focused on securing a serious and lasting ceasefire that will open the way to genuine negotiations and a sustainable resolution of the conflict.

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