Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Saturday rejected the Russian proposal for a three-day ceasefire, insisting instead on a 30-day cessation of hostilities.
Speaking at a conference with a small group of journalists in Kyiv on Friday, Zelenskyy rejected the offer by Russian President Vladimir Putin for a ceasefire, which was proposed in honor of the 80th anniversary of the victory over Nazi Germany in 1945, describing it as a “theatrical performance.”
Zelenskyy said that his rejection was based on the United States (U.S.) proposal for a 30-day ceasefire, claiming that any meaningful negotiations require a longer timeframe.
He also warned foreign leaders not to visit Moscow on May 9thand not to participate in the Victory Day celebration.
“We cannot be responsible for what happens on the territory of the Russian Federation. They are the ones providing you with security, and therefore we will not give you any guarantees,” he said.
Russian officials characterized Zelenskyy‘s comments as threatening.
Spokeswoman for the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs Maria Zakharova accused him of direct threats to foreign leaders who plan to attend the event on May 9th.
Former President Dmitry Medvedev also criticized Zelenskyy,calling on him to refrain from “verbal provocations.”
