Kyiv, April 15, 2025 — Ukrinform, Presidential Office of Ukraine
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has sharply criticized Russia’s continued refusal to engage in a ceasefire, saying Moscow has rejected peace overtures for 34 consecutive days, despite Ukraine’s willingness to halt hostilities.
In his nightly address, as reported by Ukrinform, Zelensky reiterated that Ukraine has “never wanted this war – not for a single second.” He emphasized that Kyiv responded positively to a U.S.-proposed full and unconditional ceasefire more than a month ago, but that Russia has continued its attacks, including deadly strikes on Sumy, Dnipro, Kryvyi Rih, Kupiansk, Beryslav, and across the eastern front.
“For 34 days now, Russia has been openly refusing to cease fire,” Zelensky said. “Putin remains focused on continuing the war, focused on killing.”
He accused the Kremlin of perpetuating a culture of aggression, calling war a “Russian state habit” used to export “hatred and destruction” across borders.
Zelensky also warned of the growing influence of Russian state propaganda, which he said is “preparing their audience for the idea that negotiations and diplomacy will not bring any results.”
The Ukrainian president asserted that the only reason for Moscow’s obstinacy is the lack of sufficient international pressure, stating:
“If there is no strong enough pressure on Russia, they will keep doing what they are used to – they will keep waging war.”
His remarks come amid ongoing international frustration over the stalled diplomatic efforts to end the full-scale invasion that began in February 2022. Western nations, including the United States and European Union, have called for a cessation of hostilities and the start of meaningful peace negotiations – efforts that have so far yielded no breakthrough.
Context & Background:
- On March 12, the U.S. reportedly floated a ceasefire framework, which Ukraine agreed to support. However, Russian forces have continued aerial and ground assaults.
- Ukraine remains focused on a diplomatic solution that ensures territorial integrity and long-term security, while Russia has demanded recognition of its claimed annexations and rejected terms requiring troop withdrawal.
Sources:
- Ukrinform – President Zelensky’s April 14 address
- Statements from the Office of the President of Ukraine
President Donald Trump and Volodymyr Zelensky AP Pic Via FMT Creative Commons BY 4-0
