Zelensky: “Russia can stop the fighting at any moment”

On May 4, during his visit to the Czech Republic, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated at a press conference that a ceasefire with Russia could happen at any time. He emphasized that in the current situation, due to the lack of real steps from Russia to halt military actions, it is important to increase international pressure.

“We believe that a ceasefire could begin as early as today. This process must last at least one month — 30 days — to allow real diplomatic negotiations,” Zelensky said at the joint press conference with Czech President Petr Pavel.

The Ukrainian leader noted that Russia has been rejecting the full ceasefire proposed by the United States for 54 days, which he sees as Moscow’s refusal to choose diplomacy.

Earlier, Russian President Vladimir Putin proposed a three-day truce in connection with the Victory Day on May 9. Zelensky criticized this as a manipulation and false peace offer, stressing the need for a full ceasefire of at least 30 days instead of a brief pause.

“Instead of displaying tanks and military might at the Victory Parade on May 9, Putin should be thinking about how to truly end the war he started. For this, three key steps are needed: tougher international sanctions on Russia, expanding aid to Ukraine, and strengthening defense cooperation among European countries,” Zelensky continued.

According to him, European nations must stand united against Russian aggression. Such unity would force Moscow to abandon its wrong path and reinforce Europe’s security.

For context: the military conflict between Ukraine and Russia has been ongoing since February 2022. Thousands have died, millions displaced, and many cities destroyed. Despite several international peace initiatives, Russia has yet to take concrete and decisive steps to end the war. Read 'Zamin' on Telegram!