Zelenskyy: Russia must stop strikes to begin peace talks
Photo: President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy (Getty Images)
To initiate peace negotiations, Russia must first stop its attacks on Ukraine. Only then can solutions for ending the war be sought, stated Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in his evening address..
"I spoke today with ministers - we had the foreign and defense ministers of Luxembourg visiting us. We discussed our cooperation in Europe and the support. I want to thank them for the support of Ukraine," Zelenskyy said.
According to the President, he also spoke with Luxembourg's ministers about diplomacy and the need for a complete ceasefire, "unconditional and for a sufficient period - at least 30 days."
"It's necessary to stop the strikes, stop the killings, and then seek solutions through negotiations. We are ready for any format of dialogue. Russia must stop the strikes and the war," Zelenskyy added.
Truce between Ukraine and Russia
Recently, Russian President Vladimir Putin announced a ceasefire from May 8 to 10, during the Victory Day celebrations, calling for all combat operations to cease during this time.
In response, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated that only a complete and unconditional ceasefire for at least 30 days could provide a foundation for real diplomacy.
"Now there is yet another attempt at manipulation: for some reason, everyone is expected to wait until May 8, and only then ceasefire. To ensure silence for Putin during the parade. We value people's lives, not parades. That is why we believe the world sees that there is no reason to wait until May 8. Fire must be ceased not for a few days, only to resume killing afterward," Zelenskyy emphasized.
Additionally, White House spokesperson Karoline Leavitt said that US President Donald Trump seeks lasting peace, not just a temporary ceasefire.
Meanwhile, Putin's team expressed concerns that during a 30-day ceasefire, Western partners might help strengthen Ukraine's Armed Forces.
