On Saturday, President Volodymyr Zelensky firmly rejected Russia’s offer of a three-day ceasefire, stating that such a limited pause would not contribute to meaningful peace negotiations.
Earlier in March, Ukraine had accepted a 30-day ceasefire proposal from the former U.S. administration, which was intended to be followed by discussions on critical issues including the demarcation of a ceasefire line, security arrangements for a nuclear power plant occupied by Russian forces, and the potential deployment of a European peacekeeping mission.
Zelensky described Russia’s short-term ceasefire offer, timed to coincide with the anniversary of the end of World War II in Europe—a major holiday in Russia—as a mere “theatrical performance.”
He added that Russia’s proposal seemed designed to soften President Vladimir Putin’s international isolation and ease security concerns for foreign dignitaries attending the May 9 Victory Day parade in Moscow, which Chinese President Xi Jinping is slated to attend.
“We are either at war, or Putin must demonstrate a willingness to cease fire as a first step toward ending the conflict,” Zelensky emphasized. Ukraine’s offer for a 30-day truce remains valid, and the country is open to initiating it ahead of the May 9 holiday if Russia agrees to the longer ceasefire.
Since Russia’s full-scale invasion began in 2022, Ukraine has developed and deployed an expanding arsenal of long-range drones capable of striking deep into Russian territory, including repeated attacks on Moscow.
Zelensky also stated that Ukraine will not provide safety assurances for foreign guests attending the Red Square parade, citing ongoing missile strikes on Ukrainian cities despite visits by international leaders to Kyiv. Last week, Ukraine’s military intelligence chief issued a blunt warning for parade attendees to “bring earplugs.”
In response, Russia’s foreign ministry spokeswoman condemned Zelensky’s remarks as a direct threat to Russia’s Victory Day celebrations. Additionally, a senior Russian security official warned of retaliatory measures should any provocations occur during the anniversary events.
This refusal to accept Russia’s short ceasefire comes amid improving relations between Zelensky and the previous U.S. administration, following a period of tension earlier this year. Zelensky highlighted that Ukraine has agreed to ceasefire initiatives accompanied by substantive talks, whereas Russia has not.
Despite slowed advances on the battlefield and heavy Russian casualties, Moscow is perceived as retaining momentum in the conflict, and a prolonged halt in fighting could diminish its leverage.
Last month, the former U.S. president expressed frustration over Russia’s reluctance to engage sincerely in talks and condemned missile attacks on Ukrainian cities that have resulted in civilian casualties.
Zelensky praised a recent meeting with the former U.S. leader during the Pope’s funeral as his most productive discussion yet, mentioning that he proposed the resumption of U.S. air defense aid and additional sanctions on Russia. He refrained from disclosing details but described the response as resolute.
Meanwhile, the U.S. State Department announced it would reduce its role as a mediator in the peace talks, emphasizing that future negotiations depend on Russia and Ukraine presenting concrete proposals to end the conflict.
Zelensky indicated that the United States may step back after a ceasefire is established, suggesting that some nations expect Ukraine to negotiate directly with Russia, while European countries will remain involved and supportive.
