The Kremlin on Tuesday accused Ukraine of ignoring multiple offers from Russian President Vladimir Putin to begin direct peace negotiations, just days after Moscow announced a three-day ceasefire to coincide with Victory Day celebrations in May.
Speaking to reporters, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov reiterated Russia’s willingness to engage in talks “without any preconditions,” claiming it was Kyiv that continued to stall the diplomatic process.
“It was President Putin who repeatedly said that Russia is ready, without any preconditions, to start the negotiations process,” Peskov said. “We have not heard a response from the Kyiv regime so far.”
The ceasefire set to begin on May 7 and last through May 9 was announced by Moscow as a humanitarian gesture tied to the 80th anniversary of Victory Day, a key holiday in Russia commemorating the end of World War II. The Kremlin has called on Ukraine to participate in the temporary truce, but as of Tuesday, Ukrainian officials have not formally agreed to join.
Skepticism from Kyiv
While Ukraine has welcomed the idea of a ceasefire in principle, officials remain skeptical of Russia’s intentions. Previous truces, including one during Orthodox Easter, were short-lived and marred by violations along multiple frontlines.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has consistently said that any peace talks must be predicated on a full Russian withdrawal from occupied territory, and has repeatedly demanded international guarantees for any negotiations to proceed.
International Community Watching Closely
The international response to the Kremlin’s ceasefire announcement has been cautious. The European Union and the United Nations have urged both sides to use the opportunity to resume diplomatic engagement. However, many Western governments remain wary, viewing Moscow’s overtures as strategic posturing rather than a genuine shift toward peace.
The next several days will be crucial in determining whether the proposed ceasefire materializes and whether it can pave the way for renewed dialogue or merely serve as another pause in a prolonged and brutal conflict.
