**Kremlin Seeks Ukraine’s Response on Proposed 3-Day Ceasefire**
The Kremlin has called upon Kyiv to respond to a proposed three-day ceasefire, starting from May 7th to 9th. According to Russian state news agency TASS, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said that Ukraine’s acceptance of the agreement would be a test of its readiness for long-term peace.
Peskov made these comments in response to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s earlier statement that the proposed ceasefire was nothing more than a “theatrical performance” designed to ease Russia’s international isolation and create a favorable atmosphere for the Victory Day celebrations in Moscow. Zelensky also pointed out that Russian forces would continue to attack Ukraine after the proposed ceasefire, saying “They kill until the 7th, pause for a couple of comfortable days, then start attacking again on the 11th.”
**A Pattern of Ceasefires and Repeated Violations**
This is not the first time Russia has proposed a ceasefire in recent months. In April, Moscow declared a similar truce over the Easter holiday, calling it a “test” of Ukraine’s sincerity in pursuing peace talks. However, despite this cease-fire, Ukraine accused Russian forces of nearly 3,000 violations between April 19th and 21st.
Ukraine has also pointed out that Russia repeatedly breached a partial truce on attacks against energy facilities brokered on March 25th. This pattern of behavior raises questions about the sincerity of Moscow’s intentions to achieve peace.
**US Leadership in Brokering Ceasefires**
The United States, led by President Donald Trump, has been at the forefront of brokering ceasefires between Russia and Ukraine. In recent months, however, Trump has grown increasingly frustrated with Russia, questioning Putin’s intentions to achieve peace given ongoing Russian attacks against Ukraine.
In response to these actions, U.S. government officials have prepared a new sanctions package against Russia, targeting its energy, natural resources, and banking sectors. However, it remains unclear if Trump will approve the sanctions.
**A Test of Willpower**
The proposed three-day ceasefire has been met with skepticism by many in Ukraine, who view it as another attempt to test their resolve for peace. By accepting this proposal, Ukraine would be essentially giving Russia a free pass to continue its attacks while pretending to be committed to peace talks.
As the situation on the ground continues to deteriorate, one thing is clear: the proposed ceasefire is not a solution, but rather a temporary reprieve that only serves to delay the inevitable. The real test lies in Ukraine’s ability to withstand Russian aggression and maintain its commitment to defending its sovereignty.
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