Zelenskyy Accuses Putin of Prolonging Ukraine War by Dodging Ceasefire

Ukrainian President Zelenskyy accused Putin of prolonging the war by avoiding a ceasefire proposal. Following discussions in Jeddah, the U.S. and Ukraine proposed a 30-day ceasefire to facilitate peace talks. Ongoing military actions, particularly in Kursk, complicate the situation, with both sides conducting drone strikes, highlighting the urgency and volatility of the conflict.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy accused Russian President Vladimir Putin of prolonging the war in Ukraine following a vague response to a proposed 30-day ceasefire by the U.S. and Ukraine. Zelenskyy stated that Putin’s actions resulted in an additional week of hostilities, undermining efforts to reach peace amidst ongoing U.S.-led negotiations. This response came after discussions in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, where both sides presented a ceasefire proposal intended to facilitate a broader peace agreement.

Putin’s public support for a ceasefire included additional conditions that Zelenskyy has criticized as deliberate hindrance to negotiations. In a social media statement, Zelenskyy expressed determination to enhance diplomatic efforts, emphasizing Ukraine’s commitment to peace despite Russia’s ongoing military actions. His Chief of Staff, Andriy Yermak, reiterated that Ukraine would continue its defensive response until Putin ceases hostilities.

In a related development, former President Donald Trump indicated plans to discuss the situation with Putin, expressing optimism about reaching a potential agreement. Meanwhile, fighting has continued along critical frontlines, particularly in the Kursk region, where Ukrainian forces had previously made significant territorial gains. Russian officials maintain that peace negotiations are impossible while Ukraine occupies parts of the area.

Intensive combat has persisted, with both sides maintaining long-range drone strikes against each other. On Monday, Ukraine’s air force reported downing 90 of 174 Russian drones launched overnight, indicating ongoing military escalations. Conversely, Russia reported its interception of 72 Ukrainian drones, highlighting the continued cross-border hostilities.

Additionally, reports from the Astrakhan region in Russia indicated an attempted drone strike on energy infrastructure, initiated by Ukraine, further showcasing the conflict’s expansion beyond immediate frontline areas. Local authorities reported injuries from these incidents, though the overall situation was claimed to be under control by regional officials.

In summary, President Zelenskyy has criticized Putin for extending the war by dodging a ceasefire proposal, while ongoing military confrontations complicate peace talks. The exchange of drone strikes highlights the escalating nature of the conflict, even as diplomatic efforts continue. Key players remain engaged in negotiations, but with significant hurdles still present, the situation remains precarious.

Original Source: abcnews.go.com