The Kremlin has opposed the West’s call for a ceasefire in Ukraine for 30 days, rejecting “unacceptable last-pass atums.”
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov spokesman said in a press conference on Monday, warning that the language would not force Moscow to change its position.
Peskov said: “The last word is unacceptable to Russia. It doesn’t work. You can’t talk to Russia like that.” Peskov firmly refuted the Western approach.
Despite keen condemnation, Peskov reiterated that Russia remains open to peace talks. He mentioned President Vladimir Putin
“President Putin clearly and explicitly outlined our position. We are committed to serious pursuit of long-term peace solutions,” Peskov said.
Meanwhile, Germany issued a warning on Monday that Russia must agree to an unconditional 30-day ceasefire at the end of the day or face new EU sanctions. German government spokesman Stefan Kornelius announced the news as European foreign ministers convened in London to discuss the ongoing war, now in their fourth year.
“The Ukrainian president has shown a willingness to be peaceful. He has made important concessions in recent weeks. It is now Russia’s turn to respond friendly and commit to serious political negotiations.”
After visiting Keeff over the weekend, leaders from France, Germany, Poland and the United Kingdom visited a new ceasefire over the weekend, they jointly urged Moscow to accept a temporary truce as a way to peace.
In response, Putin proposed on Sunday to hold direct negotiations in Istanbul starting on May 15, which opened up the possibility of negotiating a new ceasefire.
“We do not rule out that a new truce can be reached in these talks – a real ceasefire observed by both sides. This may mark a first step towards a lasting peace, rather than stopping before more conflicts,” Putin said.
