Zelensky: Ukraine Will Ceasefire If Russia Takes Reciprocal Steps

Ukraine's Ceasefire Proposal

• 🇺🇦 President Zelensky stated that Ukraine is prepared to initiate a 30-day ceasefire immediately if Russia reciprocates with similar de-escalation measures.
• 🎯 This proposal is contingent on Russia agreeing to terms for a truce, aiming to find a resolution to end the war.

Russia's Current Stance

• 🇷🇺 Zelensky noted a lack of readiness from Russia for a ceasefire, observing that their internal rhetoric is more mobilization-oriented.
• 📢 Russian propagandists continue to issue threats not only to Ukraine but also to neighboring Baltic states.
• 📉 While economic conditions in Russia are becoming less favorable due to oil prices, they are not yet severe enough for Russia to perceive the war as a fundamental problem.

International Pressure and Sanctions

• 🌍 The importance of international pressure on Moscow is emphasized as crucial for halting Russia's aggression.
• 💰 Sanctions against Russian energy and banks are seen as vital tools to help achieve peace.
• 🔗 Efforts are underway to prepare further sanction packages, targeting entities and schemes in third countries that facilitate Russia's circumvention of existing sanctions.

Military Situation and Defense

• ⚔️ Despite the ceasefire proposal, intense fighting continues on various fronts, particularly in the Pokrovsky direction and other Donetsk areas.
• 💥 Ukraine has responded with actions across the front and in Russia's Kursk and Belgorod regions.
• ✈️ Zelensky highlighted recent Ukrainian successes, including the downing of Russian military aircraft and operations against military targets in Crimea, demonstrating growing Ukrainian capabilities.

Call for Global Support

• 🤝 Partners are urged to continue calling for a ceasefire and to exert pressure on Russia through diplomatic channels.
• 🛡️ Protecting Ukraine's independence and statehood is framed as a prerequisite for achieving lasting peace.
• 🏗️ Foundations are being laid for Ukraine's post-war reconstruction.