Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has stated that Russian leader Vladimir Putin’s initiative to cease fire on 9 May is an element of diplomatic manipulation. He said this during a conversation with journalists.
‘This is an attempt to create an artificial ‘humanitarian’ mission from 7 to 9 May. Putin became president on 7 May 25 years ago, and now he is trying to present himself as someone who is supposedly responding to signals sent by the US through Vitkov. The Americans have proposed a model of an unconditional ceasefire, which we support. Whether it starts on this date or another is irrelevant, but it should be sooner rather than later. However, it should not last for three or five days, but at least 30. Otherwise, there can be no question of any agreement,’ Zelensky emphasised.
The president believes that the Kremlin’s actions are more of an attempt to create a favourable information background.
‘This is a game to create a comfortable atmosphere for Putin and those guests who will come to Moscow for the parade on 9 May. But no one is going to help Putin lift his isolation,’ he stressed.
Zelensky added that if Moscow is really ready for a ceasefire, Ukraine is ready to support the American initiative and agree to a 30-day truce.
‘However, in reality, they will kill until the 7th, then take a break for two or three days, and on the 11th, they will start shelling again. I do not see any sincere proposal in this,’ the head of state concluded.