Zelenskyy accuses Putin of manipulation over ceasefire proposal

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has accused Russian President Vladimir Putin of deliberately stalling efforts to secure a ceasefire in Ukraine, saying Moscow is using preconditions to obstruct peace.

In his nightly address on Telegram, Zelenskyy stated that Putin’s recent remarks indicated a refusal to consider a truce, Caliber.Az reports.

“Right now, we have all heard from Russia Putin’s highly predictable and manipulative words in response to the idea of a ceasefire on the front lines—at this moment he is, in fact, preparing to reject it,” Zelenskyy said.

“Of course, Putin is afraid to tell President Trump directly that he wants to continue this war and keep killing Ukrainians.”

According to the Ukrainian leader, Russia is creating obstacles to prevent the ceasefire from materialising. “That’s why, in Moscow, they are surrounding the ceasefire idea with such preconditions that it either fails or gets dragged out for as long as possible,” he explained. “Putin does this often—he doesn’t say ‘no’ outright, but he drags things out and makes reasonable solutions impossible. We see this as yet another round of Russian manipulation.”

Zelenskyy revealed that Ukraine had accepted a U.S. proposal for an unconditional ceasefire, which would apply across land, air, and sea. He also noted that the American side had expressed willingness to organise monitoring and verification.

“This is absolutely feasible—with American and European capabilities,” Zelenskyy said. “And during the ceasefire, to prepare answers to all questions about long-term security and a real, lasting peace, and to put a plan to end the war on the table.”

He reiterated Ukraine’s readiness to work swiftly and constructively to reach a resolution. “We are not setting conditions that complicate the process—Russia is. As we have always said, the only one stalling, the only one being unconstructive, is Russia. They need this war,” he asserted.

The Ukrainian president also called for increased pressure on Moscow through sanctions. “Putin has stolen years of peace and continues this war day after day. Now is the time to increase pressure on him. Sanctions must be applied—ones that will work,” he urged.

Zelenskyy concluded by emphasising Ukraine’s continued diplomatic efforts. “We will continue working with our American and European partners and with everyone in the world who wants peace—to force Russia to end this war.”

By Aghakazim Guliyev