After nightly shelling, Zelensky emphasizes: No truce just for holidays; it's for every day.
Fresh Take:
In the Heat of Conflict, Zelensky Pushes for a Real Ceasefire
In the midst of Russia's relentless ongoing shelling, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stands firm, calling for a genuine ceasefire. His appeal extends beyond a fleeting moment's silence on May 9, instead advocating for at least a month-long ceasefire to bring an end to the war.
Recent drone assaults by Russia, including striking residential areas of Kyiv, underscore the need for meaningful peace talks. In the early hours of May 4, attacks in three districts of the capital left 11 casualties, including two children.
Zelensky's appeal for a 30-day ceasefire aligns with strong US support, in stark contrast to Russian President Vladimir Putin's proposed 3-day ceasefire on the eve of Russia's Victory Day celebrations (May 9). Zelensky has dismissively labeled Putin's proposal as "theatrical" and unserious in its intention to end the war.
While the US has expressed support for a 30-day ceasefire, it emphasizes that commitment is contingent upon Russia demonstrating its willingness to adhere to peace agreements. Former US President Donald Trump indicated that potential US sanctions on Russia will hinge on their compliance with the requirements of any peace deal.
Ukraine has garnered support from other nations as well. The Czech Republic, for instance, has pledged to deliver up to 1.8 million shells to Ukraine by 2025. Moreover, the US is planning to send a refurbished Patriot air defense system, significantly enhancing Ukraine's defensive capabilities against Russian attacks.
Russian objectives remain unchanged, with Putin insisting that Russia can bring the conflict in Ukraine to a close, with objectives that include demilitarizing Ukraine and dissuading it from pursuing NATO membership. These goals are viewed as tantamount to Ukraine's surrender by many.
As diplomatic efforts continue, the international community maintains pressure on Russia to comply with international law and end hostilities. A comprehensive agreement seems distant, however, without substantial concessions from both parties.
- In response to the ongoing war-and-conflicts in Ukraine, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky reminded the international community of his persistent call for a genuine 30-day ceasefire.
- General-news outlets reported intensified drone attacks by Russia, targeting residential areas in Kyiv, which serve as a grim reminder of the war's severity.
- As US support for a 30-day ceasefire aligns with Zelensky's proposal, politics playing a crucial role in the conflict, with former US President Donald Trump threatening potential sanctions on Russia for any noncompliance.
- Controversially, Russian President Vladimir Putin's proposal for a 3-day ceasefire on triumphant Russia Day, May 9, was dismissed by Zelensky as theatrical and insincere, hinting at Russia's true intentions in the ongoing war-and-conflicts.
