**Russia’s Proposed Ceasefire: A Theatrical Show or a Genuine Offer?**
As Russia prepares to begin a self-declared three-day pause in fighting against Ukraine on Wednesday night, many Ukrainians are skeptical about the move. President Volodymyr Zelensky has dismissed the proposal as little more than a “theatrical show,” echoing the views of many ordinary Ukrainians.
The proposed ceasefire is meant to coincide with Victory Day, a public holiday in Russia that marks the end of World War Two in Europe. However, this has been seen by many as an attempt to project a positive image and distract from the ongoing conflict.
**A Propaganda Exercise?**
Ukraine’s former foreign minister, Pavlo Klimkin, told the BBC that Russia’s proposal is simply another show of force aimed at framing its own agenda. “It has nothing to do with a real ceasefire,” he said. “It is all about messaging – internally, to the US, and Europe.”
Many in Ukraine view the proposed three-day ceasefire as a ploy by Russia to move its forces to strategic places on the battlefield, make reinforcements where needed, and prepare for offensives.
**A Desperate Need for Ceasefire**
However, some residents of Ukraine are willing to consider the proposal, albeit with reservations. Antonina Sienina from Zaporizhzhia said that any ceasefire worth agreeing to should come with “solid guarantees” for Ukraine’s safety and sovereignty. Her family has been directly affected by Russian strikes, which have killed her parents and wounded her brother.
“It is about saving lives,” she said. “I’m originally from Donbas, from Pokrovsk. I managed to evacuate my mother but my father stayed there. I haven’t had any contact with him since 9 March.”
**A Real Ceasefire or a Ploy?**
The majority of Ukrainians remain unconvinced by Russia’s proposal, with many viewing it as either a trap or a ploy to avoid attacks on Moscow during the holiday.
Ukraine has already agreed to a US proposal for a 30-day unconditional ceasefire, but Russia has not reciprocated. The months since have been a deadly period in the war, with Russia intensively targeting Ukrainian cities with drones and missiles.
**Conclusion**
As Ukraine prepares to enter its fourth month of conflict with Russia, the proposed three-day ceasefire is seen by many as a public relations stunt rather than a genuine offer. While some may view it as an opportunity to save lives, the majority remain skeptical about Russia’s intentions.
Only time will tell if this proposal is indeed a step towards peace or simply another chapter in the ongoing conflict between Ukraine and Russia.
