[Kicking the Ball to Putin: Zelenskyy Announces 30-Day Ceasefire in Call with Trump]
On the evening of May 8, local time in Ukraine, the presidents of Ukraine and the United States held a telephone conversation. Zelenskyy described the conversation as "good, very friendly, and constructive." They discussed issues related to the economic partnership agreement, steps to end the war with Russia, and the potential for negotiations between Kiev and Moscow. Both sides also "congratulated the people of both countries on the victory over Nazism in Europe on Victory Day."
Zelenskyy pointed out that both sides welcomed the approval of the economic partnership agreement by Ukraine's Verkhovna Rada. He called this agreement "a truly historic document that opens up many new opportunities for cooperation." They also discussed "the necessity to further efforts for peace, particularly specific steps that can be taken."
Zelenskyy said, "President Trump asked about the situation on the battlefield, and I gave him a brief overview." He emphasized that Ukraine is ready to implement a 30-day ceasefire starting today. "This provides many opportunities for diplomacy. Ukraine is prepared to fully cease fire for 30 days starting today, at this moment. It must be a real ceasefire. There can be no missile attacks, no drone strikes, and no hundreds of attacks along the front line."
Zelenskyy mentioned waiting for Russia's agreement on this proposal. "They must demonstrate their readiness to end the war. This is not the first time we have made this suggestion. These 30 days can be the beginning of years of peace. A true, lasting, and reliable ceasefire will be a practical manifestation of moving towards peace. The U.S. can help in this regard. The world's need for America now is just like 80 years ago."
In discussing "joint actions," Zelenskyy mentioned the issue of U.S. support, stating, "American support is very necessary, including pressuring Russia to achieve peace," and they also discussed "diplomatic work." He believed, "A real and lasting ceasefire—at least 30 days—can provide many opportunities for diplomatic means."
Zelenskyy said, "I also confirmed that Ukraine is ready to negotiate in any form. But for this, Russia must show its sincerity in ending the war, starting with a comprehensive and unconditional ceasefire." He said that Trump confirmed his "desire to end this war, readiness to provide assistance, and support for the necessity of a ceasefire." He "arranged subsequent contact plans" with his American counterpart.
Original source: https://www.toutiao.com/article/1831603980297228/
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