Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky expressed concerns over Russia’s refusal to agree to a ceasefire, stating it complicates efforts to end the ongoing conflict. In a post on social media platform X, he noted that Russia has dismissed multiple calls for a ceasefire and has not indicated when hostilities might cease.
Zelensky’s comments come as he prepares for a visit to Washington, D.C., where U.S. President Donald Trump is expected to advocate for a peace agreement rather than a ceasefire. Trump recently indicated a desire to move directly to a permanent peace resolution after discussions with Russian President Vladimir Putin, labeling ceasefires as often ineffective.
Amid a shift in U.S. policy, Trump suggested that bypassing a ceasefire could be the best approach to conclude the war. Following a phone call with Trump, Zelensky reiterated the need for a genuine and lasting peace, emphasizing that hostilities must end and that he has specific demands for any settlement, such as security guarantees and the return of children allegedly taken from occupied territories.
Reports suggest that Trump relayed a peace proposal from Putin which involves Ukraine withdrawing from the Donetsk region in exchange for a freeze on Russian military positions in other areas. This comes despite Zelensky ruling out any territorial concessions in the Donbas, as these could potentially lead to renewed aggression.
European leaders, including French President Emmanuel Macron and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, acknowledged the importance of further discussions involving Zelensky. They emphasized that Ukraine should have the autonomy to make decisions regarding its territories and that international borders should not be altered through force.
Meanwhile, reactions in Ukraine reflect a mix of skepticism and concern about the diplomatic engagements, particularly in light of perceptions regarding the conduct of the U.S. and Russia at recent meetings.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c04rv2p3936o?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss