Moscow rejects Kyiv's request for two-month ceasefire for presidential elections

The Russian side officially rejected the proposal by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who suggested establishing a 60-day ceasefire to ensure conditions for holding presidential elections.

Position of Russian officials

Commenting on this initiative, Russian President's Press Secretary Dmitry Peskov emphasised that Moscow has a different strategic goal. "We have repeatedly said that we are striving not for a ceasefire, but for a solid and long-term peace. And we are ready to make all the necessary efforts for this," he noted.

Similar position was taken by Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov. He expressed himself in the same vein: "I don't think Zelensky deserves a ceasefire."

Context of the initiative

It was previously reported that Ukraine is ready to organise voting for a new head of state on the condition that Vladimir Putin agrees to a cessation of hostilities for 60 days. However, this proposal was rejected by the Kremlin.