18:40 08-04-2026

Russian Lawmaker Calls Zelensky Ceasefire a Tactic

Russian MP Alexey Chepa calls Zelensky’s ceasefire appeal a tactic, linking it to Middle East truce developments and Ukraine’s strategic intentions.

A senior Russian lawmaker has dismissed Vladimir Zelensky’s latest call for a ceasefire with Moscow, framing it as a tactical move rather than a genuine step toward peace.

Alexey Chepa, deputy chairman of the State Duma’s Committee on International Affairs, responded to Zelensky’s appeal, which came amid a separate two-week truce in the Middle East. In Chepa’s assessment, the Ukrainian leader’s initiative amounts to political maneuvering.

He argued that the ceasefire in the Iran-US-Israel confrontation should be seen as a precursor to a broader settlement, suggesting that an agreement in that region could be reached relatively quickly despite expected complications around Iran’s nuclear program and the role of the IAEA.

Against that backdrop, Chepa characterized Zelensky’s proposal as an attempt to buy time. He maintained that Kyiv’s stated readiness for a truce is part of a broader strategy aimed at regrouping and rearming Ukrainian forces.

The Russian MP also pointed to earlier stages of the conflict, saying that Moscow had repeatedly outlined its terms for both a peace agreement and a ceasefire in previous years.

Zelensky addressed Russia on April 8 via his Telegram channel, reiterating that Ukraine has consistently supported the idea of a ceasefire in its conflict with Moscow. He also endorsed the temporary «silence» in the Middle East, describing it as a step that opens the door for diplomatic efforts.