Zelensky announces Ukraine's readiness for a 30-day ceasefire.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced in an evening video speech on Thursday, May 8, that his country is ready to implement a "complete ceasefire for 30 days" starting from the current moment, suggesting that this could be a step towards lasting peace.
Zelensky stated, "But it must be real... 30 days could be the beginning of years of peace. A long-term ceasefire, if implemented, would be a real indicator of progress towards peace."
Zelensky confirmed discussing this proposal with U.S. President Donald Trump in a phone call, describing it as a "real indicator" of progress in negotiations with Russia. He also mentioned that Kyiv is waiting for Moscow to prove its seriousness by agreeing to an "unconditional" ceasefire.
Zelensky's remarks came during a three-day ceasefire declared by Russian President Vladimir Putin, coinciding with the anniversary of the victory over Nazi Germany in World War II. However, Zelensky described the ceasefire as "meaningless" due to ongoing clashes and mutual accusations of violations.
Meanwhile, Ivan Fedorov, governor of the Ukrainian Zaporizhzhia region, reported on Friday, May 9, that Russian forces had shelled 8 villages near the front line "220 times" during the ceasefire period, using up to "150 drones and 70 artillery shells" within 24 hours.
Trump, on the other hand, called for an "unconditional ceasefire for 30 days" in a social media post on Thursday, without mentioning his conversation with Zelensky. He warned that failure to comply with this proposal could lead to "further sanctions" by the United States and its allies.
Russia stated that any ceasefire agreement must include "reliable measures" for monitoring and compliance, while Zelensky confirmed discussing with Trump the Ukrainian parliament's approval of an agreement for mineral exploitation and the establishment of an investment fund for reconstruction.
