Kyiv, April 29 — Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has firmly rejected Russian President Vladimir Putin’s proposal for a short-term ceasefire from May 8 to May 10, dismissing it as a cynical maneuver intended to ensure a peaceful backdrop for Russia’s Victory Day celebrations rather than a step toward peace.
In a televised address on Sunday evening, Zelensky reiterated Ukraine’s unwavering demand for a full, unconditional ceasefire lasting at least 30 days — a prerequisite, he said, for any meaningful diplomatic process.
He described the proposed three-day truce as “manipulative” and “disingenuous,” asserting that it serves Moscow’s image more than humanitarian concerns.
“This is not about peace — it’s about parades,” Zelensky said. “We value human lives, not military pageantry.”
Zelensky’s response comes amid growing international scrutiny of Russia’s motives, particularly as the proposed ceasefire period aligns with the 80th anniversary of Victory Day, which Russia observes on May 9 with massive military parades. Most of Europe, along with Ukraine, marks Victory in Europe Day on May 8.
Highlighting recent Russian missile strikes on civilian areas, Zelensky accused the Kremlin of using ceasefire announcements as cover for continued aggression. He warned global powers against falling for what he characterized as another of Moscow’s deceptive tactics.
“Every time we talk of peace, Russia talks of optics,” Zelensky said. “A ceasefire that starts on 8 May is meaningless if it allows Russia to continue killing civilians today.”
Ukraine, he said, has already agreed to a U.S.-backed proposal for a 30-day ceasefire and remains committed to working with international partners to bring about an end to the war. But Russia’s refusal to commit to a long-term cessation of hostilities, he argued, demonstrates a lack of seriousness about peace.
Zelensky also pointed to the failure of a previous Russian-announced truce over the Easter period, which was marred by continued fighting. Ukrainian observers noted that Russian forces continued shelling despite the so-called humanitarian pause.
“Ukraine was ready to observe the Easter truce. We hoped it would hold, and even indicated willingness to extend it,” Zelensky said. “But Russia once again proved it cannot be trusted.”
At the United Nations, spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric gave a cautious response to Putin’s ceasefire offer, reiterating the UN’s position that any lasting resolution must respect Ukraine’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
“Efforts to end the war are welcome,” Dujarric said, “but peace must be principled, not performative.”
Asked about recent reports that North Korean troops are aiding Russian forces, Dujarric said the widening internationalization of the conflict was “deeply concerning” and a negative step for global stability.
As Putin presses ahead with plans for Victory Day commemorations, Zelensky remains resolute in calling for immediate and sustained peace. “We don’t need pauses for parades. We need an end to the war — now, not in three days,” he said.
The conflict, now in its third year, continues to cost thousands of lives with no comprehensive ceasefire in sight.