Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has proposed a new format for a ceasefire with Russia, urging both sides to suspend long-range drone and missile attacks on civilian infrastructure for at least 30 days.
Zelenskyy said there had been no air raid alerts across Ukraine on April 20—a development he described as a potential foundation for a more lasting truce, Caliber.Az reports, citing Ukrainian media.
"This format of ceasefire has been achieved, and it is the easiest to extend," he said.
Zelenskyy called on Moscow to join Kyiv in observing a month-long moratorium on strikes against civilian targets, with the possibility of prolongation.
"Ukraine is proposing to abandon any strikes with long-range drones and missiles on civilian infrastructure for no less than 30 days, with an option to extend," he said.
He warned that a refusal by Russia to accept the proposal would serve as evidence that it is intent on continuing a war that "destroys human lives".
As of April 2025, ceasefire negotiations between Russia and Ukraine remain fraught with challenges. A one-day Easter truce declared by Russian President Vladimir Putin on April 20 was marred by mutual accusations of violations, with no extension announced.
The U.S. has proposed a 30-day ceasefire, which Ukraine has accepted conditionally. However, Russia's response has been tepid. While Putin expressed agreement in principle, he emphasized the need for discussions to ensure the truce leads to lasting peace. Kremlin aide Yuri Ushakov dismissed the proposal as a mere "breather" for Ukrainian forces, reiterating demands for Ukraine to recognize Russian annexations, withdraw troops, and renounce NATO aspirations.
In response, European leaders have cautioned against a ceasefire without a comprehensive peace agreement, fearing it could serve as a prelude to further aggression. The UK and France have initiated a "coalition of the willing" to provide security guarantees for Ukraine, contingent upon a formal peace deal.
By Aghakazim Guliyev
Source: caliber.az
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