Tensions between Ukraine and Russia escalated further this week as Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky issued a stern warning to world leaders considering attending Moscow’s upcoming May 9 Victory Day celebrations. In a move underscoring the deep distrust and continued hostility between Kiev and Moscow, Zelensky rejected Russia’s proposal for a three-day ceasefire, labeling it a “theatrical production,” and instead demanded a full 30-day unconditional ceasefire.

The diplomatic drama unfolded following an announcement by Russian President Vladimir Putin, who declared that Russia would unilaterally pause military operations from May 8 to May 10 in recognition of Victory Day – a key holiday in Russia marking the defeat of Nazi Germany in World War II. Putin framed the ceasefire as a humanitarian gesture and an opportunity to begin “direct negotiations without preconditions,” according to Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov.

However, Kiev swiftly dismissed the Russian overture. Speaking at a May 3 press briefing, Zelensky insisted that a two- or three-day truce would be insufficient for any meaningful diplomatic progress and accused the Kremlin of trying to stage a public relations stunt.

“It is impossible to build any plan for the next steps to end the war in two or three days. And so it just doesn’t look very serious,” Zelensky said, as reported by Interfax-Ukraine. “It’s more of a theatrical production on [Putin’s] part.”

Zelensky further warned that Ukraine could not guarantee the security of any international dignitaries who chose to attend........

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