Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has reiterated Ukraine’s commitment to a proposed 30-day ceasefire in its conflict with Russia, aiming to foster diplomatic resolutions. Despite Ukraine’s offer, supported by the U.S. since March, Russia has not formally responded, instead continuing its strikes, which Zelenskiy cited as evidence of Russia being the aggressor.

As a symbolic gesture, Russia proposed a separate three-day ceasefire to coincide with World War II Victory Day commemorations. However, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova claimed that Kyiv obstructed previous ceasefire efforts, citing numerous violations during past agreements, including a 30-day moratorium on attacks on energy infrastructure and a ceasefire during Orthodox Easter. Zakharova emphasized that Russia was never opposed to ceasefires, accusing Ukraine of sabotaging potential peace opportunities by not adhering to agreed terms.

The differing narratives highlight ongoing tensions and the difficulty in establishing a sustained ceasefire.

Source: Reuters