Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has rejected Russia’s proposed three-day ceasefire, dismissing it as a superficial gesture aimed at boosting Vladimir Putin’s image ahead of Moscow’s Victory Day parade.
At a Glance
- Zelenskyy rejects Russia’s proposed three-day ceasefire, calling it insufficient
- Ukraine advocates for a U.S.-backed 30-day ceasefire to facilitate lasting peace
- Russia’s ceasefire proposal coincides with its Victory Day celebrations
- The U.S. signals a reduced role in mediating Ukraine-Russia peace talks
Zelensky Rejects Short-Term Ceasefire
President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has firmly declined a ceasefire proposal from Russia, which would have paused hostilities for three days around the May 9 Victory Day holiday. According to The New York Times, Zelenskyy labeled the offer a “theatrical show,” arguing it would do little to advance substantive peace talks or guarantee Ukrainian security.
Instead, Kyiv continues to promote a longer and more structured ceasefire initially proposed by the Trump administration. That plan, as reported by The Guardian, involves a 30-day cessation of hostilities, the establishment of an armistice line, safeguards for nuclear facilities, and the possible deployment of European peacekeepers.
Watch The New York Times’ report on the incident at Ukraine Rejects Russian Call for a Three-Day Cease-Fire.
Russia’s Proposal Criticized
Zelenskyy has made it clear that the Kremlin’s offer is politically motivated. He asserted that the ceasefire was timed to impress foreign dignitaries attending the Victory Day parade in Moscow. In his words, “We are simply either at war, or Putin shows he is ready to stop shooting as a first step to ending the war,” as quoted by DNYUZ.
Adding to the tension, Russian officials warned of retaliation if Ukraine were to disrupt Moscow’s planned events. However, as Countercurrents reported, Ukraine has refused to offer security guarantees while Russian missiles continue targeting its cities.
U.S. and European Role in the Negotiations
According to DNYUZ, recent talks between Zelenskyy and President Trump focused on U.S. air defense support and new sanctions against Russia. While details remain private, Zelenskyy stated, “What he told me sounded strong.”
Still, the U.S. appears to be stepping back. As The New York Times noted, the State Department has urged both Russia and Ukraine to submit concrete proposals, signaling a shift in America’s mediation role.
Zelenskyy indicated that, moving forward, European nations may take the lead in diplomacy, should a longer ceasefire be agreed upon. For now, Ukraine’s 30-day offer remains on the table—pending Russia’s decision before the symbolic May 9 holiday.
Watch The New York Times’ report on the incident at Ukraine Rejects Russian Call for a Three-Day Cease-Fire.
