Zelensky calls Putin's proposal a “positive signal” and calls for a ceasefire
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky welcomed his Russian rival Vladimir Putin on Sunday to propose direct negotiations, but insisted that a ceasefire supported by European leaders should take effect on Monday.
“This is a positive sign that the Russians are finally beginning to think about ending the war. The whole world has been waiting for a long time. And the first step to really ending any war is a ceasefire.”
“Even for a day, it doesn't make sense to continue killing people.” The Ukrainian leader said.
He added: “We hope Russia will confirm the ceasefire from tomorrow – fulfilling, lasting and reliable.”
French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk visited Kiev on Saturday.
Together with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, they called for a 30-day ceasefire that began Monday without prerequisites. The proposal was supported by the United States.
Putin called for direct negotiations with Ukraine in Türkiye on Thursday, but he did not respond to the need for a ceasefire.
