Zelenskiy Deems Russian War Commemoration Ceasefire Logic Inappropriate
Ukrainian Response to Russian Ceasefire Announcement
Zelenskiy's Critique of Russian Leadership
May 7 (Reuters) - Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said on Thursday that Russia's proclamation of a limited ceasefire for its World War Two commemorations exposed the "strange and inappropriate" logic of its leaders.
Call for U.S. Support and Historical Context
Zelenskiy, speaking in his nightly video address, also said the United States could best uphold peace in Europe, as it did during World War Two, by showing a "fair and strong stance" against an aggressive Russia.
Russian Parade and Ceasefire Details
"They want Ukraine's permission 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," Zelenskiy said.
"The Russians are already talking about strikes after May 9. Strange and certainly inadequate logic of the Russian leadership," he added.
Expanded Ceasefire Announcement
Zelenskiy's comments appeared to have been prepared before Russia's defence ministry announced an expanded ceasefire - from midnight on May 8 until May 10 - to mark the anniversary of the defeat of Nazi Germany in what Russians call the Great Patriotic War.
Diplomatic Efforts and the Path to Peace
Ukrainian Negotiations in the United States
Speaking as Ukraine's top negotiator, Rustem Umerov arrived in Miami for meetings with U.S. representatives on moving toward a peace accord. Zelenskiy said that achieving peace in Europe was the best way to honour those who fought against Nazi Germany.
America's Role in Upholding Peace
"Just as 81 years ago, so now America can help peace with a just and strong stance against the aggressor," he said. "And it is important that the American people now view Russia precisely in this way – as an aggressor."
(Reporting by Ron PopeskiEditing by Bill Berkrot)
