Zelenskyy Questions Putin’s May 9 Ceasefire, Asks Trump About Its True Purpose

Ukrainian President Zelenskyy Cautious About Putin’s Proposed May 9 Ceasefire

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has responded with measured skepticism to Russian leader Vladimir Putin’s proposal for a ceasefire on May 9, coinciding with Russia’s Victory Day celebrations. The annual event has long served as a cornerstone of Kremlin propaganda, particularly since the full-scale invasion of Ukraine began in February 2022.

“We will find out what exactly is being proposed: a few hours of safety for the parade in Moscow or something more,” Zelenskyy stated, emphasizing Ukraine’s need to understand the substance behind the announcement rather than accepting it at face value.

The Ukrainian leader has directed officials to contact representatives of former U.S. President Donald Trump’s team to gather additional information about the Russian initiative. Trump reportedly discussed the potential ceasefire with Putin during a recent conversation, with Kremlin aide Yuri Ushakov claiming the former American president “actively supported this initiative.”

Military analysts at the Institute for the Study of War (ISW) have warned that such unilateral ceasefires typically benefit Russian forces. These pauses have historically allowed Russia to regroup troops and resources while simultaneously accusing Ukraine of violations. Previous temporary ceasefires have often preceded new waves of drone and missile strikes against Ukrainian targets.

“Our proposal is a long-term ceasefire, ensuring reliable security for people and a lasting peace,” Zelenskyy countered, highlighting Ukraine’s preference for a comprehensive peace process over temporary pauses in fighting. He added that Ukraine remains open to “any effective international format” that could bring a genuine end to the war.

The Victory Day parade on May 9 commemorates the Soviet Union’s victory over Nazi Germany in World War II and has become increasingly militarized under Putin’s leadership. In recent years, it has evolved into a powerful tool for domestic propaganda, used to justify Russia’s military actions in Ukraine by falsely framing the invasion as a continuation of the fight against fascism.

Shortly after Zelenskyy’s statements, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov clarified that Russia does not require Ukraine to declare a reciprocal ceasefire for the May 9 celebrations. According to Peskov, Putin will make the decision unilaterally, as reported by Russian state news agency Interfax.

Trump’s apparent support for the ceasefire proposal adds significant political weight to the initiative, particularly given his previous statements expressing a desire to end the conflict quickly should he return to office. However, Ukrainian officials remain wary of any agreement that might provide Russia with tactical advantages without addressing the fundamental issues of territorial integrity and security guarantees.

Military experts note that Russia has used previous pauses in fighting to fortify occupied territories, replenish depleted stockpiles, and prepare for new offensives. The most intense fighting currently continues in eastern Ukraine’s Donetsk region, where Russian forces have been making incremental gains in recent months despite suffering high casualties.

For Ukraine, the key concern remains whether a temporary ceasefire would contribute to meaningful peace negotiations or simply provide Russia with breathing room to reorganize its military operations. As Zelenskyy’s administration continues its diplomatic efforts, the response to Putin’s proposal will likely be carefully calibrated to avoid compromising Ukraine’s strategic position while remaining open to genuine peace initiatives.

The timing of the announcement comes as Ukraine faces challenges with military aid deliveries and growing pressure on the battlefield, factors that could influence how Kyiv approaches any temporary respite in fighting, however brief it might be.