"Right now, we have all heard from Russia Putin’s highly predictable and manipulative words in response to the idea of a ceasefire on the front lines - at this moment he is, in fact, preparing to reject it," Zelensky said, criticizing the Kremlin’s approach.
He argued that Putin is afraid to tell former U.S. President Donald Trump directly that he wants to continue the war, so instead, Moscow surrounds the ceasefire proposal with preconditions that ensure it either fails or is endlessly delayed.
Ukraine backs unconditional ceasefire, urges global pressure on Russia
Zelensky reaffirmed Ukraine’s acceptance of the U.S. proposal for an unconditional ceasefire - on land, at sea, and in the air. "We in Ukraine accepted this proposal," he said, highlighting that American and European allies are prepared to monitor and verify compliance.
The politician also stressed that during the ceasefire, efforts could focus on addressing long-term security concerns and formulating a lasting peace plan.
"We are not setting conditions that complicate the process - Russia is," Zelensky insisted, underscoring that "they need this war."
He called on the international community to increase pressure on Moscow through effective sanctions, stating, "Now is the time to increase pressure on him. Sanctions must be applied - ones that will work."
The Ukrainian leader emphasized continued cooperation with the U.S., Europe, and global allies to force Russia into ending the war.
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Source: PAP/X/@ZelenskyyUa