Ukraine urges immediate ceasefire, intensifies peace efforts
The President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelensky, calls for an immediate ceasefire by Russia. He emphasises his readiness for talks in any format. "The attacks must be stopped immediately and unconditionally," Zelensky appeals.
What do you need to know?
- When and where did the talks regarding the end of the war take place? On Wednesday, 23rd April, talks were held in London between the Ukrainian delegation and representatives from the United Kingdom, France, and Germany. The discussions focussed on ways to end the hostilities.
- What did President Zelensky say? Volodymyr Zelensky emphasised on the Telegram platform that Ukraine insists on an immediate, full, and unconditional ceasefire with Russia.
What are Ukraine's key demands?
The President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelensky, in his post on Telegram, expressed a firm demand for an immediate ceasefire with Russia. "Ukraine has repeatedly stated that it does not exclude any format of talks that could lead to a ceasefire" – recalled Zelensky. Talks were held in London with the participation of Ukraine’s foreign and defence ministers and their British counterparts.
What were the reactions to the talks in London?
The talks in London took place on 23rd April. "Emotions were running high today. But it is good that five countries met to bring peace closer" – wrote Zelensky on the social platform X. The President of Ukraine expressed hope that joint actions with Western partners, including the United States, would contribute to achieving peace.
What are Ukraine's next steps?
"It has been 44 days since Ukraine agreed to a full ceasefire and a halt to strikes. This was a proposal from the United States. And it has been 44 days of Russia continuing to kill our people and evading tough pressure and accountability for its actions," wrote the President of Ukraine on Thursday.
Zelensky emphasised that Putin's brutal attacks on Ukraine continue, and since the talks on a ceasefire, nothing has changed. "Nearly 70 missiles, including ballistic ones. And about 150 attack drones. Unfortunately, there is significant destruction. Rescue operations are ongoing, and the rubble of residential buildings is being cleared. As of this moment, over 80 people have been injured across Ukraine. Everyone is receiving the necessary assistance.Regrettably, 9 people have been killed in Kyiv," wrote Zelensky.
He assured that Ukraine would adhere to its constitution, which is crucial in the context of American criticism regarding the recognition of Russian control over Crimea. He also expressed confidence that Ukraine's Western partners would act according to Ukraine’s clear decisions.
What actions will the President of Ukraine take?
"I instructed the Minister of Defense of Ukraine to immediately contact our partners regarding our requests to strengthen air defenses. Today, I will brief President Ramaphosa of South Africa, who currently holds the G20 Presidency, on the situation and our need to intensify global diplomatic efforts. The strikes must be stopped immediately and unconditionally. We also count on support in humanitarian matters — in the return of our prisoners and Ukrainian children abducted by Russia. I am canceling part of the program for this visit and will return to Ukraine immediately after the meeting with the President of South Africa," wrote Zelensky. He added that he is grateful to everyone around the world who stands with Ukraine.
Source: X, Wirtualna Polska
