Zelensky accuses Russia of prolonging Ukraine war amid ceasefire talks
US-Russia talks on Ukraine war to begin in Saudi Arabia after Kyiv says meeting with Americans was ‘constructive and informative’
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky accused Moscow of prolonging the war on Sunday, as representatives from Kyiv and Washington gathered in Saudi Arabia for the latest round of negotiations aimed at securing a ceasefire in the war in Ukraine.
“Russia is the only one dragging this war out,” Zelensky said in his evening video message.
“Since March 11, a proposal for an unconditional ceasefire has been on the table – and these attacks could have already stopped. But it is Russia that continues all this,” he said, referring to a series of Russian drone attacks in recent days.
On March 11, Kyiv agreed to a 30-day ceasefire plan proposed by the United States if Moscow also complied. However, Russian President Vladimir Putin has set several preconditions, including a demand that the West halt all military aid to Kyiv.
“Without pressure on Russia, those in Moscow will continue to show contempt for real diplomacy and keep destroying lives,” Zelensky said.