Kremlin Rejects Zelenskys Ceasefire Appeal, Citing Outstanding Nuances

On Tuesday, the Kremlin rejected Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s proposal for a 30-day ceasefire, stating that the «nuances» raised by Russian President Vladimir Putin remain unaddressed.

Zelensky criticized Putin’s recent unilateral declaration of a 72-hour ceasefire, scheduled from May 8 to May 10, labeling it as a form of “manipulation” and advocated for an immediate month-long truce instead.

Speaking to reporters, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov remarked, “It’s challenging to agree to a ceasefire of such duration without resolving the questions brought up by Putin.”

In March, Putin expressed concerns that a 30-day ceasefire, as suggested by the United States, could enable Ukrainian forces to reorganize and rearm while hindering Russian advances at the front.

Putin’s three-day ceasefire coincides with the May 9 Victory Day celebrations, which honor the Soviet Union’s victory over Nazi Germany in World War II. A significant military parade is planned in Moscow’s Red Square, with several foreign dignitaries expected to be present.

Zelensky questioned the rationale behind the proposed temporary ceasefire, stating, “We prioritize human lives over parades.”

Additionally, the White House echoed sentiments on Monday, noting that U.S. President Donald Trump is in favor of a permanent ceasefire rather than Putin’s “temporary” plan.

Peskov accused Zelensky of evading a direct reply to the suggested 72-hour cessation of hostilities.

«We have yet to hear how the Kyiv regime plans to respond, and it remains uncertain if they intend to partake in the ceasefire,» Peskov said.

“Nonetheless, we’re hopeful that the peace initiative from the Russian president will receive the recognition it deserves,” he added. “The initial step is to initiate the negotiation process; everything else is secondary.”

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio earlier cautioned that the coming week will be “critical” for peace discussions, with Trump indicating he may withdraw his ceasefire efforts if no advancements are achieved.