Zelensky expresses skepticism towards Russia's commitment to a three-day truce.
Prague's Agenda Amidst Ongoing Conflict - In a candid press conference in Prague, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky candidly expressed his doubts over a proposed three-day truce during Russia's Victory Day commemoration.
"Ain't the first rodeo, nor the first promise of a ceasefire from the Russians... We know who we're dealing with, we don't bloody believe 'em," Zelensky said, holding court with Czech President Petr Pavel.
Vladimir Putin had hoked up a three-day truce for celebrations set in May 2025, claiming it as a test for Kyiv's peace-making intentions. However, Zelensky's skepticism is well-founded, given the track record of prior ceasefire promises made by Russia, none of which have proven to be more than hot air.
Putin tried his luck once before, instigating a brief ceasefire during Easter 2025, which, while resulting in a drop in hostilities, was far from a fail-safe. Both sides were accused of skirmishing within the confines of the agreed-upon armistice[1][2].
Moscow thumbed their nose at an unconditional 30-day ceasefire plan proposed by Kyiv and Washington in March that year[3]. In the weeks that followed, attacks continued to rock Ukraine, with 200-plus incidents on a Saturday alone, as per military records cited by Zelensky.
It ain't just talk, it's action the Ukrainian Prez needs to see, and the recent attacks contradict the notion of any genuine willingness to lay down arms, he asserted[3]. Czech President Pavel gathered that Putin's words can only be trusted when they align with deeds, not empty promises.
Prague has been rolling out the red carpet for Zelensky, who dropped by the Czech Republic for a two-day visit[1]. The country, a member of the European Union and NATO, has been a staunch supporter of Ukraine since the commencement of the conflict in early 2022. It has opened its arms to over half a million refugees, and their military support has been instrumental in bolstering Ukraine's defense.
The Czech Republic is hosting an all-European initiative geared toward supplying Ukraine with artillery ammunition, financed primarily by NATO allies[1]. Zelensky lauded this initiative as "outstanding" during the press meeting. However, the EU has thus far failed to deliver on its promise of a million shells for Ukraine[1], leaving Ukraine still needing a reliable and robust support system.
In addition to the ammunition aid, Zelensky highlighted plans for a Ukrainian-Czech school to train pilots for American F-16 aircraft[4]. Security problems in Ukraine have unfortunately hindered the establishment of such a school within the country's borders. He also revealed a planned meeting with Czech defense companies, although the specifics are yet to be revealed.
With relentless determination and an iron will, President Zelensky and the Czech Republic continue to navigate politics, general warfare, and diplomacy, with the ultimate goal of providing Ukraine the support it needs to safeguard its future.
- President Zelensky, expressing skepticism in Prague, stated that he is not ready to believe in another ceasefire promise from Russia, citing past failures.
- During his visit to the Czech Republic, Zelensky lauded the all-European initiative to supply Ukraine with artillery ammunition, primarily financed by NATO allies, calling it "outstanding."
- Despite the EU's failure to deliver on its promise of a million shells for Ukraine, Zelensky highlighted plans for a Ukrainian-Czech school to train pilots for American F-16 aircraft.
- In the midst of ongoing war-and-conflicts, politics, and diplomacy, President Zelensky and the Czech Republic are largely focused on providing Ukraine with the support it needs to safeguard its future.
