Zelensky calls for 30‑day ceasefire, dismisses Putin's plan

President Volodymyr Zelensky referred to Vladimir Putin's proposal for a ceasefire from May 8 to 10.

Zelensky emphasized that Ukraine does not need a temporary ceasefire for the parade in Moscow but rather a complete and immediate cessation of fire for at least 30 days.

In his evening address, Zelensky noted that Ukraine never wanted this war and is ready to work with international partners to establish peace and ensure security.

Meanwhile, Russia consistently rejects such initiatives and manipulates international opinion, trying to mislead, among others, 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 said.

Zelensky emphasized that the ceasefire should not be temporary or tailored to Russia’s needs, but immediate, complete, and unconditional, lasting 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," said Zelensky.

This is not the first "ceasefire" proposed by Vladimir Putin. Just before the holidays, he called for an "Easter truce." He then announced that Russia "would suspend all military actions from 11:00 AM Eastern Time on April 19 to 5:00 PM Eastern Time on April 21".

The parties accused each other of breaking the truce, yet both Kyiv and Moscow admitted that there were fewer attacks than usual.

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