The Kremlin stated on Tuesday that Ukraine has not yet responded to Russian President Vladimir Putin’s proposal for peace talks and a three-day ceasefire in May.
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov told reporters that President Putin has repeatedly expressed Russia’s willingness to start peace talks without preconditions. However, there has been no response from the Ukrainian government.
On Monday, Putin announced a ceasefire from May 8 to 10, coinciding with Russia’s planned celebrations marking the 80th anniversary of victory over Nazi Germany in World War II.
In response, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky questioned why Moscow is unwilling to agree to Ukraine’s proposed 30-day ceasefire.
Peskov noted that it is difficult to determine whether Ukraine will participate in the proposed ceasefire.
Since Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022, no peace talks have taken place. Ukraine and Western countries view Russia’s proposal as a strategic move rather than a genuine effort for peace.
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba commented that Russia is using the ceasefire offer as a delay tactic. “We want real peace, where our territorial sovereignty is respected,” he said.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres has called on both sides to begin urgent talks to end the conflict.