Zelensky expressed skepticism on Russia’s cease-fire offer, stating that without U.S. monitoring, the cease-fire is unlikely to hold.
Zelensky to Discuss Cease-Fire Offers with Trump After Putin's Proposal
Zelensky to Discuss Cease-Fire Offers with Trump After Putin's Proposal
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky shows cautious openness to Russia's cease-fire while emphasizing the need for U.S. oversight.
In a news conference held in Helsinki on Wednesday, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky indicated he would be speaking with President Trump later in the day regarding the possibilities following an earlier call Trump had with Russian President Vladimir V. Putin. The Kremlin stated that during their conversation, Putin agreed to a limited cease-fire aimed at stopping strikes on Ukrainian energy facilities. However, this offer does not meet Ukraine's request for a comprehensive 30-day unconditional truce, which was encouraged by Washington.
Zelensky responded to the offer, suggesting he might be open to a limited truce, though he highlighted that U.S. oversight would be vital for any kind of monitoring and enforcement. “If the Russians do not strike our facilities, we will definitely not strike theirs,” he remarked, emphasizing the necessity of trust and cooperation.
The relationship between Ukraine and Russia remains tense, with both nations exchanging allegations regarding attacks on energy infrastructures. Zelensky voiced concerns about the conditions linked to Putin's cease-fire proposal, interpreting them as tactics to delay and strengthen Russia’s military standing rather than a genuine willingness to end hostilities. He warned, “They are not even prepared to take the first step toward a cease-fire because they will continue to impose additional conditions.”
In contrast, the extensive 30-day cease-fire Ukraine had tentatively agreed to after U.S. discussions in Saudi Arabia was envisioned as a breakthrough. This agreement would provide a historic pause in fighting across land, air, and sea, marking the first cessation of hostilities since the full-scale invasion commenced over three years ago. The timeframe for this truce would allow for more significant negotiations towards a long-term peace.
Zelensky responded to the offer, suggesting he might be open to a limited truce, though he highlighted that U.S. oversight would be vital for any kind of monitoring and enforcement. “If the Russians do not strike our facilities, we will definitely not strike theirs,” he remarked, emphasizing the necessity of trust and cooperation.
The relationship between Ukraine and Russia remains tense, with both nations exchanging allegations regarding attacks on energy infrastructures. Zelensky voiced concerns about the conditions linked to Putin's cease-fire proposal, interpreting them as tactics to delay and strengthen Russia’s military standing rather than a genuine willingness to end hostilities. He warned, “They are not even prepared to take the first step toward a cease-fire because they will continue to impose additional conditions.”
In contrast, the extensive 30-day cease-fire Ukraine had tentatively agreed to after U.S. discussions in Saudi Arabia was envisioned as a breakthrough. This agreement would provide a historic pause in fighting across land, air, and sea, marking the first cessation of hostilities since the full-scale invasion commenced over three years ago. The timeframe for this truce would allow for more significant negotiations towards a long-term peace.
