Zelensky Accuses Russia of Rejecting Ceasefire as Strikes Continue

Ukraine President Zelenskyy

The US had pushed for a comprehensive, 30-day ceasefire as the first step toward a broader resolution of the three-year-old war. However, in a 90-minute phone call with former US President Donald Trump on Tuesday, Russian President Vladimir Putin rejected the proposal. Instead, he insisted that any ceasefire would depend on the West halting all military aid to Ukraine.

While the Kremlin claimed that Putin had ordered a 30-day pause in strikes on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure, explosions rocked Ukraine shortly after the Trump-Putin call, with air raid sirens blaring across the country. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky responded, stating that Russia's actions on the ground proved Putin had effectively rejected the ceasefire proposal.

"There have been hits, specifically on civilian infrastructure, including a hospital in Sumy," Zelensky said. "It is these types of nighttime attacks by Russia that destroy our energy sector, our infrastructure, and the normal life of Ukrainians. Today, Putin has effectively rejected the proposal for a full ceasefire."

In Kyiv, skepticism over Russia’s commitment to any ceasefire was palpable. Lev Sholoudko, 32, voiced widespread doubts. "I don’t believe Putin at all, not a single word. He only understands force," Sholoudko remarked.

‘Not Ready’ for Peace

While Trump, who claims to have an "understanding" with Putin, has sought to broker a breakthrough in the war since his return to the White House in January, Zelensky condemned Russia's reluctance to negotiate.

"They are not ready to end this war, and we can see that," Zelensky said, reiterating his frustration with Russia’s intransigence. Despite the ongoing diplomatic talks, Zelensky made it clear that Ukrainian forces would continue their operations in Russian-held areas such as the Kursk region, which has seen significant Russian advances in recent days.

In a move that further fueled tensions, Russian officials announced that Ukrainian forces had attempted a ground assault on the Belgorod region earlier in the week but were repelled. Moscow framed this as an effort to undermine the ongoing Trump-Putin talks.

Divided Paths

Trump, who has long criticized the Biden administration’s approach to Russia, hailed his call with Putin as "good and productive." The White House confirmed that the Russian leader had agreed to a temporary 30-day truce on energy infrastructure, but emphasized that a more comprehensive ceasefire hinged on Kyiv's compliance with longstanding Russian demands.

Moscow insisted that the West end all military and intelligence support for Ukraine, and that Kyiv cease any efforts to rearm or mobilize its forces during the pause.

Zelensky, who had earlier expressed openness to a full ceasefire during talks in Saudi Arabia, voiced frustration with Moscow's position. "They are not ready to end this war, and we can see that," he said.

Western leaders, including German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and French President Emmanuel Macron, swiftly rejected Putin's demand to stop aid to Ukraine. "Ukraine can count on us," Scholz said, reaffirming Europe’s commitment to continue supporting Ukraine militarily despite Moscow’s objections.

Soldiers on the Frontlines Doubtful

Even as diplomatic discussions continue, Ukrainian soldiers on the frontlines remain deeply skeptical of any ceasefire. Oleksandr, 35, a soldier who had returned to military training in the Donetsk region after being injured in combat, expressed distrust in the negotiations. "How can you trust people who attack you and kill civilians, including children?" he said.

With the war continuing to ravage Ukraine, and Moscow unwilling to offer meaningful concessions, the prospects for a peaceful resolution remain uncertain, and the human toll on both sides continues to climb.