On May 7 (local time), Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced that Ukraine would continue to maintain its proposal for a 30-day ceasefire in the conflict with Russia, in order to create opportunities for diplomatic efforts. He emphasized: "We do not withdraw this proposal, which could bring opportunities for diplomacy."
Mr Zelensky's speech came just hours before a three-day ceasefire initiated by Russia took effect at midnight Moscow time, on the occasion of the 80th anniversary of the German Socialist Victory.
According to Mr. Zelensky, Russia has not yet responded officially to Ukraine's proposal for a 30-day ceasefire, in addition to new attacks. He affirmed that this is clear evidence of the origin of the conflict. The Ukrainian president also acknowledged the drone strikes on Russian territory, including the capital Moscow, ahead of a historic celebration.
Meanwhile, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said Moscow did not object to a ceasefire. She stressed that Russia had repeatedly executed ceasefire orders - one lasting 30 days without attacking energy infrastructure and the other in parallel with the reinforcement Day in April. According to her, the accusation that Russia obstructed the ceasefire initiative was wrong.
Ms. Zakharova also rejected US special missionary Keith Kellogg's statement that Russian President Vladimir Putin was obstructing a comprehensive ceasefire. According to her, it was Kiev that caused the obstacle, continuously violating the agreement and not being ready to seriously discuss the conditions for a long-term ceasefire.
The 30-day ceasefire proposal was previously made by the US in March and Ukraine agreed. Russia said the measure could only be implemented if implementation and monitoring mechanisms were clearly established.
