Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has turned down a three-day ceasefire suggested by Russian President Vladimir Putin, calling it a “theatrical performance.” However, Zelenskyy said Ukraine is open to a full, long-term ceasefire.
Russia said the short truce, planned for May 9 to align with its World War II Victory Day celebrations, was meant to test if Ukraine is serious about peace. The Kremlin also accused Zelenskyy of making a “direct threat” to the celebrations.
Earlier this year, Kyiv and Washington had proposed a 30-day unconditional ceasefire, but Russia rejected it. Since then, Russia has made little effort to support US President Donald Trump’s attempts to end the ongoing war.
Also See: Ninth Night of Ceasefire Violations: What Is Pakistan Really Trying to Do?
Zelenskyy told reporters that a short ceasefire won’t help achieve peace. “You can’t build a peace plan in just two or three days,” he said.
Many in Ukraine believe the truce is a way for Russia to avoid disruption during its big May 9 event, where many world leaders, including China’s Xi Jinping, are expected in Moscow to attend a military parade and Putin’s speech.
Zelenskyy added that Ukraine will not “play games” just to help Putin appear less isolated on the world stage. He also said that countries attending the celebrations should take care of their own security, as Ukraine can’t be held responsible for anything that happens in Russia.
He warned that Russia might try to blame Ukraine for any incidents during the celebrations, such as fires or explosions. Russia responded by accusing Zelenskyy of threatening the safety of veterans and parade-goers.
Meanwhile, fighting continues. Russian forces are advancing in some areas, and both sides are increasing air attacks.
The US has said it may stop trying to help reach a ceasefire if there is no progress. US State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce said America wants a lasting peace, not just a short break for celebrations.
Recently, US President Trump has tried to improve relations with Russia. This included a tense meeting with Zelenskyy in February, where they were supposed to sign a deal giving the US access to Ukraine’s mineral resources. After disagreements, the deal was revised to better protect Ukraine’s interests, though it doesn’t include any promises of military protection.
Read More: 183,000 War Crimes: Zelensky Reveals Staggering Toll of Russian Atrocities
Zelenskyy later met Trump at the Vatican and said the meeting helped improve their relationship. “I believe President Trump started to see things differently after our talk,” Zelenskyy said.
The fighting has not stopped. A Russian drone attack on the city of Kharkiv injured 51 people, including two children. At the same time, Russia accused Ukraine of attacking a southern port city, wounding five people and damaging buildings.
