Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky announced today, "Our proposal includes a long-term ceasefire, guaranteed and reliable security for our people, and lasting peace."

This statement follows a phone call a day earlier between President Vladimir Putin and US President Donald Trump, where the Russian leader indicated a willingness to halt hostilities for Victory Day on 9/5.

President Zelensky has also directed Ukrainian negotiators to engage with the United States to clarify Russia's proposals. He added, "We will determine if this signifies a few hours of security for the Moskva parade or something more substantial."

President Volodymyr Zelensky meeting Prime Minister Rob Jetten in the Netherlands on 16/4. Photo: AP

On 28/4, Russia's Ministry of Defense announced that the Victory Day Parade on Red Square on 9/5 would omit mechanized columns and certain marching formations seen in previous years, citing "operational circumstances."

President Zelensky's remarks underscore an effort to secure a more comprehensive and lasting truce. Russia has consistently rejected appeals for a full and unconditional cessation of hostilities, instead proposing only limited and short-term ceasefires.

Peace negotiations between Russia and Ukraine have remained deadlocked for over two months, particularly as the United States, a key mediator, has shifted its focus to the Middle East conflict.

The most recent dialogue involving the United States, Russia, and Ukraine occurred on 16/2. A subsequent round of negotiations, planned for late February, was suspended just before the US-Israel launched an offensive against Iran.

Russian-controlled territory. Graphic: Telegraph

On 18/4, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov stated that resuming dialogue with Kiev is currently "not Moskva's top priority," though he added that Russia is prepared to negotiate if its counterpart is willing. Speaking at the Antalya Diplomacy Forum in Turkey, he remarked, "We will assess if the timing is suitable, the location convenient, and what the agenda entails."

Russia and Ukraine previously held three rounds of peace talks in Turkey between May and July 2025. These efforts produced several outcomes, including exchanges of military remains and prisoners of war, alongside draft memoranda detailing both sides' positions for a potential peace agreement.

By Thanh Tam (Based on reports from Kiev Independent, Guardian, and Anadolu Agency)