The Kremlin rejected an unconditional 30-day ceasefire proposed by Kiev and Washington in March, and has since only since worked to U.S. President Donald Trump to promote efforts to end the three-year Russian invasion.
“This is his dramatic performance. Because in two or three days it is impossible to make a plan to end the war.”
The Ukrainian leader spoke with a small group of journalists, including AFP, in a violation of Saturday's remarks on Friday.
World War II Anniversary
Some in Ukraine criticized the armistice as a way to prevent Kiev from disturbing the anniversary of World War II, and foreign leaders should watch large military parades in Moscow and speeches by Russian President Vladimir Putin. Zelenskyy said Ukraine would not “play the game to create a pleasant atmosphere to allow Putin to withdraw from quarantine on May 9.”
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters that the ceasefire is designed to test “Kiev is ready to seek ways to achieve long-term sustainable peace.”
The Kremlin said leaders of about 20 countries, including China's Xi Jinping, accepted invitations to join this year's celebration.
Zelenskyy said some countries were already close to Kiev, warning them to go to Russia and demanding security.
He replied: “Our position is very simple for all countries traveling or traveling to Russia – we cannot take responsibility for what is happening on the territory of the Russian Federation.”
“They are making sure you are safe,” said Zelenskyy, adding that “there are various steps that may be taken, like arson, explosion, etc., and then blame us.”
Zelenskyy didn't say what Ukraine would do during the truce, but Russia jumped up and accused Kiev of posing a “direct threat” to the May 9 commemoration.
“He threatened the physical safety of veterans who were attending parades and celebrations on Holy Day,” Foreign Ministry spokesman Maria Zakharova said in a telegram. “His statement…is a direct threat of course.”
Grand celebration plan
Russian officials have promised a grand celebration for the occasion, during which Putin will seek support for his troops fighting in Ukraine.
Russian troops have been making hard gains in several places on the front line, with Moscow and Kiev strengthening air attacks.
