Zelensky rejects Putin's ceasefire, calls for real peace

President Volodymyr Zelensky referred to Vladimir Putin's ceasefire proposal. Zelensky stressed that Ukraine does not require a temporary truce for the parade day in Moscow but rather a complete and immediate cessation of hostilities for a minimum of 30 days.

In his evening address, Zelensky acknowledged that Ukraine never desired this war and is prepared to collaborate with international partners to establish peace and ensure security.

Meanwhile, Russia consistently dismisses such initiatives, manipulating international opinion and attempting to mislead countries, including the United States.

"Now, yet again, another attempt at manipulation: for some reason, everyone is supposed to wait until May 8 before ceasing fire – just to provide Putin with silence for his parade. We value human lives, not parades. That’s why we believe – and the world believes – that there is no reason to wait until May 8," he stated.

Zelensky emphasised that the ceasefire should not be temporary or tailored to Russia's preferences, but immediate, comprehensive, and unconditional, lasting for at least 30 days. "The ceasefire should not be just for a few days, only to return to killing afterward. It must be immediate, full, and unconditional – for at least 30 days to ensure it is secure and guaranteed. This is the foundation that could lead to real diplomacy," Zelensky said.

This is not the first "ceasefire" proposed by Vladimir Putin. Prior to the holidays, he called for an "Easter truce". He announced that Russia "would cease all military actions from 3 PM Moscow time on 19 April to 9 PM Moscow time on 21 April".

Both sides accused each other of violating the truce, although both Kyiv and Moscow acknowledged that the number of attacks had decreased.

On 9 May, Russia celebrates Victory Day, a public holiday commemorating the end of the Second World War.