KYIV (CHATNEWSTV) — Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy late Thursday accused Russian President Vladimir Putin of deliberately stalling ceasefire efforts while avoiding direct rejection of peace proposals.
“Putin is afraid to tell President Trump directly that he wants to continue this war and keep killing Ukrainians,” Zelenskyy wrote on X. “Instead, Moscow surrounds the ceasefire idea with preconditions, ensuring it either fails or drags out as long as possible.”
Zelenskyy said Ukraine had accepted a U.S. proposal for an unconditional ceasefire “in the air, at sea, and on the front lines,” with American and European capabilities ready for monitoring and verification. He added that Kyiv remains committed to a swift and constructive peace process.
Russia, he claimed, is the only side obstructing progress. “They need this war,” he said. “Putin has stolen years of peace and continues this war day after day.”
The Ukrainian leader called for increased pressure on Moscow, including sanctions “that will work,” as Kyiv continues diplomatic efforts with the U.S., Europe, and allies worldwide to force Russia to end its invasion.
The Kremlin has not yet responded to Zelenskyy’s remarks.
