Zelensky harshly responded to the Russian proposal for a partial ceasefire: he called it “idiocy”
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has once again expressed sharp criticism of Moscow's ideas and initiatives, particularly those concerning the so-called "partial" or "temporary" ceasefire. According to the head of state, the enemy’s proposal for a break in hostilities for several days, supposedly to allow the removal of fallen soldiers from the battlefield, is not only senseless but also ignores Ukraine’s strategic interests and logical considerations. Zelensky made this statement during a briefing held a few days ago, referencing information from "Ukrinform" citing an official comment from his administration representatives. He emphasized that the Russian proposal ignores Ukraine’s real objectives in the war and serves merely as a tactic to distract and delay the conflict, with the aim of boosting their position for greater pressure. “I consider such an idea absolute idiocy,” Zelensky said in response to the proposal for a short-term ceasefire. “This would be one of those cases where a ceasefire is needed for soldiers to bury their comrades, to avoid new casualties. But in the Russian concept, it’s just a brief pause to retrieve their dead from the field, because they are not prepared for serious negotiations or to seek long-term solutions.” The head of state stressed that for Russia, the so-called "pause" mode is more a tactic of temporary stopping of hostilities within a larger war, rather than a genuine call for peace. In his view, Moscow aims to prolong the conflict to strengthen its positions, using short-term ceasefires for rearmament, victories on temporary sections of the front, and diplomatic maneuvering. Zelensky emphasized that Ukraine cannot and does not intend to agree to so-called "ceasefires," which are merely a cover for the occupiers. He stated that he is firmly urging his Western partners, particularly the United States, to work consistently and decisively to increase sanctions pressure on Russia. The president believes that strong and coordinated steps in sanctions and other measures from Washington are capable of forcing the Kremlin to abandon its aggressive plans. “We very much hope that our American partners, especially the Senate, will be able to help us by applying pressure and sanctions to persuade Russia to end this war,” Zelensky said, highlighting the need for unity among Western countries. “I am convinced that without tough measures and sanctions, Moscow will not recognize the seriousness of the situation and will not cease its aggression.” The president recalls that since the US signaled a potential complete ceasefire three months ago, Ukraine has supported and called for continued diplomatic efforts. Kyiv was among the first to express readiness for dialogue and to pursue a peaceful resolution, but only under the conditions that Russia ceases the occupation of Ukrainian territories and returns the kidnapped Ukrainian citizens. Also on the agenda remains a key component — prisoner exchanges and the return of kidnapped children. After negotiations on May 16, the parties agreed on new formats for exchanging prisoners and exchanged lists and documentation, including hundreds of Ukrainian children abducted by Russians during the occupation. At the same time, Ukrainian authorities are alarmed by Russia’s ultimatums for a complete ceasefire, which Moscow is trying to impose on Kyiv. These demands include capitulation or certain concessions, which are unacceptable to Ukraine. Vladimir Zelensky emphasized that Ukraine cannot agree to any agreement that violates its sovereignty or threatens the security of its citizens. As reported, the peace dialogue remains complicated and tense. While Russia attempts to create an illusion of a truce as a means to restore its forces and prepare for new offensives, Ukraine remains firm in its stance that the war should end only when the occupiers leave Ukrainian land and cease their aggression. Given this situation, Kyiv calls for greater unity and decisive action to protect its interests and ensure the security of its citizens in this unprecedented crisis.