Kyiv:
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has dismissed the three-day ceasefire proposed by Russian leader Vladimir Putin, labeling it a mere ploy. However, Zelensky did mention that he’s open to a comprehensive ceasefire.
So far, Russia has turned down an unconditional 30-day ceasefire advocated by both Kyiv and Washington.
“This feels like another performance by him; in just a few days, it’s unreasonable to formulate a plan to resolve the war,” Zelensky remarked during a small press meeting on Friday, which included representatives from AFP.
He emphasized that Ukraine wouldn’t allow a false sense of security to form, especially as Putin seeks to avoid embarrassments on May 9, a day when several international leaders plan to attend celebrations in Moscow for World War II.
Many in Ukraine see the Russian ceasefire suggestion as a tactic to thwart any Ukrainian actions during these public holidays, particularly when a large military parade in Red Square is set to take place, featuring addresses from Russian leaders.
Throughout the ongoing invasion, Ukraine has launched attacks not just within its borders but has also targeted locations across Russia.
“We cannot take responsibility.”
According to the Kremlin, leaders from around 20 countries, including Xi Jinping of China, have accepted invitations to take part in this year’s commemorations.
Zelensky noted that certain countries have approached Kyiv and are reaching out to Russia for assurances of safety.
“Our stance is straightforward for all nations attending the May 9 events in Russia. We won’t be responsible for what occurs on Russian territory,” he stated.
“They’re ensuring your safety,” Zelensky added.
Russian leaders are anticipating a significant celebration, during which Putin aims to rally support for troops engaged in Ukraine.
There have been notable gains for the Russian army in various areas, as both Moscow and Kyiv ramp up air assaults.
The US has cautioned that, without visible progress, it might pull back from its efforts to mediate a ceasefire.
Washington aims for “a truly lasting ceasefire and an end to the conflict—not just a brief pause,” State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce mentioned this week.
Ultimately, Bruce indicated that it would be up to US President Donald Trump to determine the next steps in diplomacy.
“Look at things differently”
Since he took office, Trump has reassessed US policies regarding Russia and initiated discussions with the Kremlin.
This culminated on February 28 with a notable encounter between Trump and Zelensky, where the two leaders were positioned to sign a mineral trade agreement that would allow Ukraine access to its resources in exchange for some level of protection.
Since then, Ukraine has revised the agreement, resulting in collaboration between Washington and Kyiv to develop and invest in Ukraine’s critical mineral assets.
Zelensky said on Friday that the agreement is advantageous for both parties while safeguarding Ukraine’s interests.
This followed a meeting between Trump and Zelensky at the end of April, right before the funeral of Pope Francis at the Vatican—their first encounter since that earlier clash.
“We had a very productive conversation, perhaps the best yet,” Zelensky noted on Friday.
“I believe that after the Vatican meeting, President Trump has started to see things from a different perspective.”
