Janice R. Andrews
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has accused Russian President Vladimir Putin of manipulating a proposed ceasefire, claiming that Moscow is deliberately complicating the process with preconditions aimed at delaying or derailing progress. In a recent post on X, Zelenskyy stated, “Right now, we have all heard from Russia Putin’s highly predictable and manipulative words in response to the idea of a ceasefire on the front lines—at this moment, he is, in fact, preparing to reject it.”
Zelenskyy emphasized that Ukraine has accepted a US-backed proposal for an unconditional ceasefire on land, at sea, and in the air. However, he accused Russia of creating obstacles to avoid a resolution. “Putin is afraid to admit his desire to continue the war and is using tactics to complicate negotiations,” Zelenskyy said. He added that Moscow is surrounding the ceasefire idea with preconditions designed to either fail or prolong the process indefinitely.
The Ukrainian president stressed that Ukraine is not imposing any conditions that would hinder progress, placing the blame squarely on Russia. “We are not setting conditions that complicate the process—Russia is. As we have always said, the only one stalling, the only one being unconstructive, is Russia. They need this war. Putin has stolen years of peace and continues this war day after day,” Zelenskyy asserted.
US-Backed Ceasefire Proposal
Zelenskyy revealed that the US had proposed an unconditional ceasefire, which Ukraine accepted. He noted that discussions with American and European representatives had already taken place, and global allies were aware of Ukraine’s position. “There was a US proposal for an unconditional ceasefire—in the air, at sea, and on the front lines. We in Ukraine accepted this proposal. We have heard from the American side that there is readiness to organize monitoring and verification,” Zelenskyy said. He added that the ceasefire would provide an opportunity to prepare long-term security plans and work toward a lasting peace.
Putin’s Response
Meanwhile, Russian President Vladimir Putin expressed openness to a ceasefire but insisted that any halt in fighting must lead to “long-term peace and eliminate the root causes of the crisis.” Speaking at a press conference alongside Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko, Putin thanked world leaders, including US President Donald Trump, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, and Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, for their efforts to resolve the conflict.
However, Putin suggested that Ukraine’s willingness to negotiate might have been influenced by US pressure. “On the face of it, the US-Ukraine meeting in Saudi Arabia may look like the Ukrainian side made this decision under pressure from the United States. In fact, I am absolutely convinced that the Ukrainian side should have asked the Americans for this decision most emphatically, in view of the situation evolving on the ground,” Putin said.
International Reactions
The proposed ceasefire, discussed during US-Ukraine peace talks in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, was welcomed by President Trump, who emphasized the importance of ending the war. “Soldiers of both Russia and Ukraine are being killed in this horrible war,” Trump said, expressing hope that Russia would agree to the ceasefire.
India has also reiterated its support for diplomatic negotiations. Prime Minister Narendra Modi stated that India’s stance is not neutral but “on the side of peace.” Modi emphasized that war cannot be resolved on the battlefield and called for dialogue. “I have said that ‘this is not a time of war’ in front of the media when President Putin was with me. Even today, my conviction is that the solutions to war cannot be found on the battlefield, and ultimately, we have to be at the table,” Modi said.
Last year, PM Modi traveled to Russia and Ukraine, meeting with both leaders and reaffirming India’s willingness to play an active role in peace efforts. During discussions with Zelenskyy, Modi reiterated India’s position that a resolution must come through diplomacy and dialogue.
Calls for Increased Pressure on Russia
Zelenskyy called for increased international pressure on Moscow, emphasizing the need for effective sanctions. “Now is the time to increase pressure on him. Sanctions must be applied—ones that will work. We will continue working with our American and European partners and with everyone in the world who wants peace—to force Russia to end this war,” he said.
The conflict, which began in February 2022, has drawn widespread international efforts toward de-escalation. However, with both sides maintaining deep-seated disagreements, a lasting peace remains uncertain. The proposed 30-day ceasefire, contingent on Russia’s acceptance, could serve as a critical step toward ending the war, but its success hinges on Moscow’s willingness to engage in good faith.
As the world watches, the stakes remain high. The ongoing war has caused immense suffering, with thousands of lives lost and millions displaced. The international community continues to urge both sides to prioritize peace and work toward a resolution that ensures long-term stability and security for the region.
