In a recent development, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has accused Russian President Vladimir Putin of rejecting an immediate, unconditional 30-day cease-fire proposed by the United States.
Zelensky suggests that Putin is intentionally prolonging the peace process as he "needs war" to persist in Ukraine.
According to The New York Post, Zelensky, who had promptly agreed to the cease-fire proposal put forth by President Trump, expressed his disappointment in a post on X. He lamented that Putin "does not want any ceasefire," a fact made evident when Special Presidential Envoy Steve Witkoff left Moscow on Friday without a deal.
Zelensky didn't mince words in his criticism of Putin, stating, Putin is lying about the real situation on the battlefield, he is lying about the casualties, he is lying about the true state of his economy, which has been damaged by his foolish imperial ambitions, and he is doing everything possible to ensure that diplomacy fails. He further added that Putin's fear of losing everything is the reason behind his attempts to sabotage diplomacy with "extremely difficult and unacceptable conditions."
The Ukrainian President also warned that Putin would attempt to ensnare everyone in "endless discussions," wasting precious time while his weapons continue to wreak havoc. He emphasized the need for "real peace" and urged not to let the war drag on.
Zelensky highlighted his immediate agreement to Trump's proposal for a full cease-fire, a significant shift from Kyiv's previous stance of accepting only an air and sea cease-fire. He acknowledged that his government would have demands in a future peace agreement but reiterated that it was Trump's plan to halt the fighting before initiating negotiations.
The Ukrainian leader expressed his readiness to prepare a reliable peace plan during the ceasefire period. He said, During the period of silence, we could prepare a reliable peace plan, put it on the table, discuss the details, and implement it.
Zelensky called on "everyone who can influence Russia, especially the United States" to persuade Moscow to commit to Trump's proposed cease-fire agreement. He stressed the need for pressure on Russia, stating, Only decisive actions can end this war, which has already lasted for years.
President Trump had temporarily halted military aid and intelligence sharing with Ukraine in the week leading up to the successful cease-fire talks with Kyiv. He also threatened Russia with stricter economic sanctions but has yet to take decisive action to ensure Putin's agreement to his proposal.
Zelensky expressed his belief in the responsibility of their partners to ensure Russia's readiness to end the war. He emphasized, Putin will not end the war on his own. But the strength of America is enough to make it happen.
In a nod to former President Ronald Reagan, Zelensky quoted one of Trump's favorite sayings, "peace through strength," to underscore the need for strong pressure on Russia.
In his concluding remarks, Zelensky expressed his gratitude to "everyone helping to bring peace closer the United States, Europe, and the whole world." He affirmed Ukraine's readiness to act swiftly and constructively, warning that they would not be the ones to sabotage the peace process.
Login