**Ukraine Rejects Russia’s Ceasefire Proposal, Backs 30-Day Truce Plan from US**
In a closed-door session with journalists, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky dismissed Russian President Vladimir Putin’s proposal for a three-day ceasefire as a “theatrical performance” designed to ease Russia’s international isolation. Zelensky reiterated Ukraine’s support for a U.S.-backed strategy calling for an unconditional 30-day ceasefire.
According to Zelensky, the Russian proposal was not a serious attempt to end the war and was instead aimed at creating a favorable atmosphere for the Victory Day celebrations in Moscow. He warned that Moscow’s history of violating short-term truces undermines any trust in its latest offer.
“This is more of a theatrical performance on his part,” Zelensky said, emphasizing that any temporary pause risks being exploited by Russia without proper monitoring.
The Ukrainian president highlighted that Ukraine has accepted the U.S.-proposed 30-day ceasefire for over 50 days but was rejected by Moscow. He suggested that Putin’s initiative was a response to peace signals delivered by U.S. President Donald Trump’s Special Envoy Steve Witkoff.
“An unconditional ceasefire is a model that the Americans have proposed,” Zelensky said. “We are following it. From this date or another date, preferably earlier.”
**Russia’s History of Violating Ceasefires**
This is not the first time Russia has announced a ceasefire only to repeatedly violate it. Earlier this month, Moscow declared a ceasefire over the Easter holiday but was accused by Ukraine of nearly 3,000 violations between April 19 and April 21.
Ukraine has also dismissed Russian declarations of readiness for peace talks as propaganda stunts. Kyiv notes that Russian forces have intensified their attacks on Ukrainian cities and towns despite these claims.
**US Support for 30-Day Ceasefire**
The U.S.-backed strategy calling for an unconditional 30-day ceasefire has been met with support from Ukraine. The proposal was accepted by Ukraine over 50 days ago but rejected by Moscow, which demanded a complete halt on military aid to Ukraine.
Zelensky emphasized that Kyiv is willing to begin the 30-day truce at any time, including May 1st or May 7th. However, he stressed the importance of proper monitoring to prevent Russia from exploiting any temporary pause.
**Escalating Conflict**
The conflict in Ukraine continues to escalate, with both sides reporting heavy casualties and damage. Ukrainian air defense forces intercepted 77 drones overnight on May 3, while another 73 were lost from radar without causing damage.
On May 2, a Russian drone attack on Ukraine’s northeastern city of Kharkiv injured at least 47 people, according to local authorities. At least eight people have been hospitalized.
In response to Russia’s escalation, the U.S., UK, and France reaffirmed their support for Ukraine and condemned Russia’s actions.
**Ukraine’s Long-Range Capabilities**
President Zelensky emphasized that Ukraine’s long-range capabilities are a clear guarantee of the country’s security. He stressed that these capabilities have been instrumental in defending against Russian aggression.
As the conflict continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how the international community will respond to Russia’s actions and whether the proposed 30-day ceasefire can bring much-needed peace to Ukraine.
**The Views of Anna Fratsyvir**
Anna Fratsyvir, news editor at the Kyiv Independent, notes that Russia has repeatedly used ceasefires as a propaganda tool. She emphasizes that any temporary pause must be properly monitored to prevent exploitation by Russia.
Fratsyvir also highlights that the conflict in Ukraine continues to escalate, with both sides reporting heavy casualties and damage. She stresses that the international community must continue to support Ukraine in its efforts to defend itself against Russian aggression.
Read More @ kyivindependent.com
