Moscow's truce offer tests Ukraine's peace readiness
Moscow is demanding a clear response from Ukraine to its proposal for a three-day truce. The Kremlin believes that Kyiv's reaction will test its readiness for peace.
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What do you need to know?
- The Kremlin proposes a three-day truce: Russia proposed a ceasefire from May 7 to 9, as a test of Ukraine's readiness for peace.
- Ukraine rejects the proposal: President Volodymyr Zelensky is calling for a 30-day truce, in line with American strategy.
- Russia announces a ceasefire: Moscow announced a unilateral ceasefire from midnight Eastern Time on May 6 to midnight Eastern Time on May 9 for humanitarian reasons.
What are the Kremlin's expectations?
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov emphasized that Moscow expects a "definitive" response from Ukraine to the proposal for a three-day truce. "The response of the Ukrainian authorities to Russia's initiative (...) is a test of Ukraine's readiness for peace. We will expect not ambiguous, but definitive answers" - said Peskov. He also claimed that Ukraine's ideology is based on "neo-Nazism."
Why does Ukraine reject the proposal?
President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelensky, rejected the Kremlin's proposal, arguing that a three-day ceasefire is insufficient. Zelensky calls for a 30-day truce, in line with American strategy. "An unconditional ceasefire is the model proposed by the Americans. We follow it. From this or that date - preferably sooner" - said Zelensky.
What is Russia planning?
Russia announced that it will unilaterally suspend military actions from midnight Eastern Time on May 6 to midnight Eastern Time on May 9, citing humanitarian reasons. These dates coincide with the celebrations of the end of World War II, which Russia celebrates on May 9. Chinese leader Xi Jinping is expected to attend the ceremonies in Moscow.
