Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has accused Russia of deliberately delaying truce negotiations, warning that Moscow is “trying to buy time” to continue its war, despite claims from former U.S. President Donald Trump that ceasefire discussions are progressing.
Zelensky Calls for Consequences Amid ‘Unrealistic’ Demands
“If Russia continues to put forward unrealistic conditions and undermine progress, there must be tough consequences,” Zelensky posted on social media on Tuesday. He reiterated Ukraine’s readiness to engage in negotiations but criticized the Kremlin for avoiding genuine dialogue.
His remarks followed Trump’s announcement that both he and Russian President Vladimir Putin had agreed to begin peace talks “immediately” after separate phone calls with Zelensky and Putin on Monday.
Moscow Offers Memo, Rejects Timetable
The Kremlin confirmed it was open to discussing a memorandum on a future peace agreement, but has so far dismissed calls for a 30-day ceasefire. Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova placed the onus on Kyiv to respond to the peace proposal, while Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov cautioned against expectations, saying “there are no deadlines and there cannot be any.”
Despite Trump’s optimism, Putin has yet to address the proposed pause in fighting directly, and previously declined Zelensky’s invitation to meet in Istanbul. Trump had offered to attend if Putin agreed, but the Russian leader refused.
Diplomatic Push and Renewed Western Pressure
In response, Zelensky has launched a new round of diplomatic outreach to shore up Western support. After a call with Finland’s president, he stated Ukraine was working with allies to ensure pressure on Moscow would “force the Russians to change their behaviour.”
The European Union and United Kingdom have responded with fresh sanctions, targeting Russia’s so-called “shadow fleet” of oil tankers and military-linked companies. The EU blacklisted nearly 200 vessels and warned of further actions if Moscow resists truce efforts. The UK followed by sanctioning 18 more ships and expanding restrictions on Russian exports and financial entities.
Fighting Continues as Ceasefire Hopes Dim
Over the weekend, Ukraine experienced what officials described as the largest drone assault since the full-scale invasion began in February 2022. On Monday alone, Ukrainian forces reported 177 front-line clashes and claimed over 1,000 Russian casualties within 24 hours.
German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius, ahead of an EU ministerial meeting, criticized Russia’s latest actions: “Putin is clearly playing for time. Unfortunately, we have to say he is not really interested in peace.”
Temporary Ceasefires Offer Little Relief
Past ceasefires announced by Moscow — such as one from 8–11 May to mark Russia’s World War II victory celebrations — have been short-lived and mistrusted by Kyiv. Ukrainian officials rejected the offer, citing the lack of sustained peace and accusing Russia of using truces for tactical gains.
A similar truce over Easter, which lasted 30 hours, also saw repeated violations, with both sides blaming each other for hundreds of infractions.
As efforts to broker a longer-term ceasefire remain uncertain, the situation on the ground continues to deteriorate, leaving diplomatic momentum fragile and Zelensky’s warnings about Russia’s intentions increasingly urgent.
