Ukraine has proposed a long-term ceasefire to Russia after President Vladimir Putin floated the idea of a temporary truce around Victory Day celebrations, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on April 30.
The development follows a phone call between Putin and US President Donald Trump on April 29, during which the Russian leader signaled readiness to pause hostilities for a short period tied to Russia’s May 9 commemorations marking the Soviet Union’s victory in World War II.
Speaking publicly, Zelensky questioned the scope and intent of the proposed truce, suggesting it could be limited to ensuring security for ceremonial events in Moscow rather than a meaningful step toward ending the war.
“We will clarify what exactly this is about — a few hours of security for a parade in Moscow, or something more,” Zelensky said. “Our proposal is a long-term ceasefire, reliable and guaranteed security for people, and a lasting peace.”
Kyiv has repeatedly emphasized that any pause in fighting must be comprehensive and accompanied by enforceable guarantees, warning that short-term truces risk allowing Russian forces to regroup and continue offensive operations. Ukrainian officials have in the past rejected symbolic or unilateral ceasefires, arguing they do not address the broader conditions needed for a sustainable peace.
Russia’s Victory Day on May 9 is one of the country’s most significant national holidays, typically marked by large-scale military parades in Moscow. Previous attempts to establish temporary ceasefires around major holidays, including Easter and New Year, have largely failed to produce lasting reductions in hostilities.
The latest exchange comes amid ongoing diplomatic maneuvering and continued fighting along the front lines, with Ukraine seeking broader international backing for a durable ceasefire framework while maintaining pressure on Russian forces on the battlefield.
Image source: President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky. (Zelensky Official Telegram)
