Zelenskiy's Ceasefire Proposal: A Struggle for Peace Amid Conflict

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy reiterated support for a 30-day ceasefire offer amid tensions with Russia. While Ukraine remains committed to the proposal, Russia claims the need for enforcement mechanisms, citing past ceasefire efforts. Both sides blame one another for the impasse, with recent military activities providing no respite.

Amid ongoing hostilities with Russia, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy renewed his country's commitment to a 30-day ceasefire proposal on Wednesday. Despite Russia's objections to suggestions that Moscow is hindering these diplomatic efforts, Zelenskiy insisted on maintaining Ukraine's stance to give diplomacy a chance.

The ceasefire offer comes as a Kremlin-endorsed three-day ceasefire marks the 80th anniversary of Nazi Germany's defeat in World War Two. While both sides briefly halted military actions, Ukraine reported an aerial assault by Russian forces on the northeastern Sumy region just hours before the ceasefire period commenced.

In the backdrop of ongoing drone attacks targeting Russian sites, Zelenskiy highlighted the deteriorating situation, regardless of the temporary ceasefire. In response to accusations from Moscow, Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova contended that Kyiv remains the primary barrier to a long-term ceasefire, as both nations continue to grapple with formalizing a peace process.

(With inputs from agencies.)