Zelenskyy reveals Russia's response to ceasefire proposal
Photo: Volodymyr Zelenskyy, President of Ukraine (Getty Images)
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky discussed with the United States Russia’s response to a proposed Easter ceasefire — a massive attack involving more than 700 drones, he said in his evening address.
"Our soldiers have been shooting down Russian drones virtually all day. Air raid alerts were declared in most regions, more than 700 Russian drones were launched, many of them Shaheds. The interception rate over the past day was quite high — around 90%, but it needs to be higher," he said.
The President noted that the drone attack was effectively Russia’s response to the proposal for a ceasefire during the Easter holidays.
"I spoke today with the American team, including about this. We need other signals, and an Easter ceasefire could be the signal that diplomacy can work. Ukraine is doing everything to support peace efforts," Zelenskyy said.
He added that Kyiv had openly proposed an Easter ceasefire to Moscow. According to him, Russia responded with Shahed drones and continues its terrorist attacks on Ukraine’s energy sector and infrastructure.
Background
On March 30, the Ukrainian President was asked whether Kyiv would propose an Easter ceasefire to Russia and what international guarantees would be needed to ensure that Russia would not use the pause to strengthen its military positions.
"We have supported any formats to end the war, you know that, but only when they (Russia - ed.) do not compromise the dignity and independence of our state. A ceasefire, in any form, as we discussed today, whether full or limited to energy infrastructure, we are ready for a ceasefire during the Easter holidays," he said.
The President added that “normal people who respect life" talk about ending the war permanently, not just for a few days.
In response, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov claimed that there had been no clear initiative from Ukraine regarding an Easter ceasefire.
At the same time, the Institute for the Study of War noted that Ukraine continues to offer concessions and demonstrate readiness for negotiations, while the Kremlin shows no interest in a ceasefire or peace talks.
