On May 3, 2025, President Volodymyr Zelensky firmly rejected a Russian proposal for a three-day cease-fire, which he characterized as a mere “theatrical show.” His statements came during a press conference in Kyiv, where he emphasized that such a brief truce would not advance the ongoing negotiations vital for a lasting peace.
Ukraine Dismisses Russia's Short-Lived Cease-Fire Proposal
Ukraine Dismisses Russia's Short-Lived Cease-Fire Proposal
Ukrainian President Zelensky critiques Russia's three-day cease-fire as insufficient for peace negotiations.
Zelensky pointed out that Ukraine had earlier accepted a lengthy 30-day cease-fire suggested by the Trump administration in March. This proposal was designed to facilitate negotiations on key issues such as establishing an armistice line, securing a nuclear power plant held by Russian forces, and the potential deployment of a European peacekeeping troop. Thus, he reaffirmed that the current Ukrainian offer for a month-long truce remained on the table and could begin prior to the upcoming May 9 holiday, should Russia accept.
According to Zelensky, the Russian cease-fire was mainly aimed at creating a more favorable atmosphere for President Vladimir Putin as he prepares for the Victory Day parade in Moscow, which celebrates the end of World War II in Europe. With Chinese President Xi Jinping set to attend, Zelensky noted that the measure seemed intended to ease the security concerns of international leaders rather than generate meaningful peace.
Zelensky stressed the stark reality of the situation, stating, “We are either at war, or Putin shows he is ready to stop shooting as a first step towards ending the war.” This ongoing conflict continues to affect both nations, with a clear need for dialogue among stakeholders to alleviate concerns and work towards a comprehensive resolution.
According to Zelensky, the Russian cease-fire was mainly aimed at creating a more favorable atmosphere for President Vladimir Putin as he prepares for the Victory Day parade in Moscow, which celebrates the end of World War II in Europe. With Chinese President Xi Jinping set to attend, Zelensky noted that the measure seemed intended to ease the security concerns of international leaders rather than generate meaningful peace.
Zelensky stressed the stark reality of the situation, stating, “We are either at war, or Putin shows he is ready to stop shooting as a first step towards ending the war.” This ongoing conflict continues to affect both nations, with a clear need for dialogue among stakeholders to alleviate concerns and work towards a comprehensive resolution.
