Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov said Vladimir Zelensky does not deserve a pause on the battlefield and accused Kiev of using ceasefire initiatives to secure a temporary halt in fighting on terms favorable to Ukraine.

Lavrov said Moscow would not rely on renewed assurances or promises and would continue pursuing the goals of what Russia calls its special military operation.

He also criticized Zelensky’s reaction to U. S. President Donald Trump’s remarks about an energy ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine. According to Lavrov, Zelensky’s surprise was staged, noting that the Ukrainian leader had previously said he was unaware of such an agreement and wanted further clarification.

Lavrov argued that Kiev’s statements about readiness for a ceasefire are aimed at buying time to rebuild its forces and receive new weapons supplies from European countries.

Earlier, Zelensky said Ukraine would be prepared to hold a presidential election within 60 to 90 days if the United States and the European Union helped provide security.