Russia has rejected Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s proposal for a 60‑day ceasefire, arguing that a temporary pause in fighting would not address the underlying issues of the conflict and insisting that Moscow is focused on achieving a broader, long‑term settlement.
The proposal was put forward by Zelenskyy to allow Ukraine to conduct a presidential election amid the ongoing war. Ukraine’s leadership argued that a two‑month halt in hostilities could create the necessary conditions for a nationwide vote and reduce the security risks associated with holding elections during an active conflict.
However, the Kremlin swiftly dismissed the suggestion. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said Russia was not interested in a short‑term ceasefire and instead wanted a comprehensive peace arrangement. According to Peskov, Russian officials have repeatedly stated that Moscow’s objective is a lasting resolution rather than a temporary suspension of military operations.
“In the Kremlin, both President Vladimir Putin and officials at other levels have repeatedly stated that we do not want a ceasefire,” Peskov told reporters, adding that Russia is prepared to do everything possible to achieve what it views as a durable peace agreement.
Despite rejecting the broader truce proposal, Peskov indicated that President Vladimir Putin could consider ordering Russian forces not to attack Ukraine on the day of its presidential election. The comment was interpreted by some observers as a limited gesture toward reducing tensions during a key political event, though no formal commitment was announced.
The Kremlin also declined to comment directly on claims surrounding a proposed “energy ceasefire” involving attacks on energy infrastructure. Peskov provided no details on whether any understanding exists between Moscow and Kyiv on that issue.
The exchange highlights the continued gap between Russian and Ukrainian positions. While Kyiv is seeking temporary arrangements to facilitate domestic political processes and reduce the intensity of fighting, Moscow continues to insist that only a comprehensive political settlement can bring an end to the war.
With both sides maintaining sharply different goals, prospects for a meaningful ceasefire remain uncertain despite ongoing international diplomatic efforts.