Ukraine’s Zelenskyy calls Russia's ceasefire proposal a manipulation attempt

KYIV/ISTANBUL

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy dismissed an announcement by Russia on Monday of a temporary ceasefire for May 8-11 as a manipulation attempt tied to the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Soviet Union in the Second World War.

In a video message on Telegram, Zelenskyy said: “Now, yet again, another attempt at manipulation: for some reason, everyone is supposed to wait until May 8 before ceasing fire – just to provide (Russian President Vladimir) 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,” Zelenskyy added.

Zelenskyy stressed that any ceasefire should not be temporary but “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,” he said.

The president also noted that the Russian military continued to attack Ukraine’s energy infrastructure.

“We in Ukraine never wanted a single second of this war – and we have always said that we are ready to work as swiftly as possible with all partners who can help establish peace and guarantee security.”

KYIV/ISTANBUL

“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,” Zelenskyy added.

Zelenskyy stressed that any ceasefire should not be temporary but “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,” he said.

The president also noted that the Russian military continued to attack Ukraine’s energy infrastructure.