Zelensky Says Russian Ceasefire Shows “Strange Logic”

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has criticized Russia’s limited ceasefire for its World War II commemorations, saying it exposed the “strange and inappropriate” logic of Moscow’s leadership.

Speaking in his nightly video address shortly before the Russian ceasefire came into force at midnight, Zelensky said Moscow wanted “to hold their parade, to go out onto the square safely for an hour once a year, and then continue killing, killing our people and waging war”.

“The Russians are already talking about strikes after 9 May. Strange and certainly inappropriate of the Russian leadership”, he said.

There were no immediate reports of Russian strikes or other military activity after the deadline passed. Air raid alerts had been issued for some Ukrainian regions in the final hours before the ceasefire took effect.

Zelensky said the best way to honor those who fought against Nazi Germany was to achieve a just peace in Europe. He called on the United States to continue supporting Ukraine and to view Russia clearly as the aggressor.

Kyiv, he added, had received “only new Russian strikes and new Russian threats” after proposing its own ceasefire in response to Moscow’s declaration.

Zelensky also said Ukraine would continue defensive and offensive operations, including long-range strikes on Russian military and energy targets. At the same time, he said Kyiv was ready to pursue diplomacy if Russia showed genuine willingness to negotiate.

(reuters, est)