Zelensky on ceasefire: Putin's statements manipulative

President Volodymyr Zelensky said this in his evening address, Ukrinform reports.

"We have all heard from Russia Putin’s highly predictable and manipulative words in response to the idea of a ceasefire on the front lines – at this moment he is, in fact, preparing to reject it. Of course, Putin is afraid to tell President Trump directly that he wants to continue this war and keep killing Ukrainians. That’s why, in Moscow, they are surrounding the ceasefire idea with such preconditions that it either fails or gets dragged out for as long as possible. Putin does this often – he doesn’t say ‘no’ outright, but he drags things out and makes reasonable solutions impossible. We see this as yet another round of Russian manipulation ," Zelensky said.

According to Zelensky, Ukraine accepted the American proposal for an unconditional ceasefire on land, in the air, and at sea.

"We have heard from the American side that there is readiness to organize monitoring and verification. And this is absolutely feasible – with American and European capabilities. And during the ceasefire, to prepare answers to all questions about long-term security and a real, lasting peace, and to put a plan to end the war on the table. Ukraine is ready to work as quickly and constructively as possible," the President emphasized.

He noted that this position has been communicated to American representatives, European partners, and all allies worldwide.

"We are not setting conditions that complicate the process – Russia is. As we have always said, the only one stalling, the only one being unconstructive, is Russia. They need this war. Putin has stolen years of peace and continues this war day after day. Now is the time to increase pressure on him. Sanctions must be applied – ones that will work," Zelensky said.

"We will continue working with our American and European partners and with everyone in the world who wants peace – to force Russia to end this war," the President concluded.

As reported earlier, Putin claimed that Moscow agreed to a ceasefire in Ukraine but set certain conditions.

Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump stated that he had leverage over Russia to achieve a ceasefire but refused to disclose the details.