02:58 01-05-2026

Zelensky Seeks Details on Putin Victory Day Ceasefire

Zelensky asks the US for details on Putin’s Victory Day ceasefire proposal, questioning its scope while calling for a longer truce and lasting peace.

Ukraine plans to seek clarification from the United States regarding a ceasefire proposal put forward by Russian President Vladimir Putin ahead of Victory Day, according to Vladimir Zelensky.

In a message published on his Telegram channel, Zelensky said he had instructed Ukrainian representatives to contact the team of the U.S. president to obtain details of the Russian initiative for a temporary halt in hostilities.

He indicated that Kiev wants to understand whether the proposal concerns only a short pause — potentially limited to ensuring security during a parade in Moscow — or a longer cessation of fighting.

Zelensky emphasized that Ukraine’s position is to pursue a more extended ceasefire aimed at guaranteeing safety for civilians and achieving a lasting peace.

He also recalled that Western partners had previously urged Kiev to refrain from striking Russian oil facilities due to escalating tensions in the Middle East and the risk of a global energy crisis. According to Zelensky, he rejected that request, stating that Ukraine would continue to respond.

Instead, Kiev proposed a ceasefire limited to the energy sector, but, as he noted, the idea did not receive support.

On April 29, Putin and U. S. President Donald Trump held a phone call, during which the Russian leader said Moscow was ready to announce a ceasefire in connection with Victory Day celebrations. Trump described the initiative positively.

In 2025, a ceasefire marking the 80th anniversary of Victory lasted for three days, from May 8 to May 11.