May 7 - Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy criticized Russia's proclamation of a limited ceasefire timed for World War Two commemorations, saying the move exposed the "strange and inappropriate" logic of the country's leadership. He made the comments during his nightly video address.
Zelenskiy argued that a brief pause in hostilities for ceremonial events did not change Moscow's broader conduct. "They want Ukraines permission to hold their parade, to go out onto the square safely for an hour once a year, and then continue killing, killing our people and waging war," he said. He added: "The Russians are already talking about strikes after May 9. Strange and certainly inadequate logic of the Russian leadership."
The Ukrainian president also called on the United States to support peace in Europe through what he described as a "fair and strong stance" against Russia. He said that the United States could help honour those who fought against Nazi Germany by backing efforts that would contribute to peace on the continent.
Zelenskiys remarks appear to have been prepared before an announcement by Russias defence ministry that extended a previously declared truce. The ministry said the ceasefire would run from midnight on May 8 until May 10 to mark the anniversary of the defeat of Nazi Germany in what Russians call the Great Patriotic War.
Separately, Rustem Umerov, serving as Ukraines top negotiator, arrived in Miami to meet with U.S. representatives to discuss steps toward a peace accord. Zelenskiy framed progress toward peace in Europe as the most fitting way to honour those who fought against Nazi Germany. "Just as 81 years ago, so now America can help peace with a just and strong stance against the aggressor," he said. "And it is important that the American people now view Russia precisely in this way - as an aggressor."
The statements, delivered in the context of commemorative events and diplomatic engagement, underline Kyivs posture on the ceasefire announcement and the diplomatic track involving U.S. interlocutors. The timing of the comments and the subsequent extension of the truce by Russian authorities were presented as distinct developments within the same timeframe.