Ukraine insists on an immediate, complete, and unconditional ceasefire, Volodymyr Zelensky stressed today, as a series of statements are being made by all sides involved regarding the progress of the peace negotiations.

According to Zelensky, doctors are providing all necessary assistance to people injured this morning as a result of the Russian drone attack in Dnipropetrovsk.

“A fierce strike and a deliberate war crime. The Russians hit a bus carrying workers of a mining and processing plant. An ordinary bus. It was a political object, a political target. More than 40 people were injured, most of them women, some of them very seriously. Unfortunately, 9 people died. My condolences to their families and loved ones,” the Ukrainian president said.

We in Ukraine insist on an immediate, complete, and unconditional ceasefire. This was the correct proposal of the United States on March 11 this year. This is feasible. But it is possible only if Russia agrees to it and stops the killings, Zelensky added.

He recalled that “at Easter, we achieved a reduction in the intensity of hostilities and the absence of air strikes. Ukraine proposed to prolong this situation for at least 30 days and complete the ceasefire. We are also ready for an immediate ceasefire at least on civilian objects, and we have already announced it. This should be a joint first priority with all partners – saving lives.”

“There was a meeting with partners in Paris. We are continuing today in London – the Ukrainian delegation has already started meetings. Ukraine has repeatedly said that it does not exclude any of the forms that can lead to a ceasefire and, in the future, to real peace. Ending the killings is the number one task. I am grateful to all those who focus on this and help to move towards ending the war,” the Ukrainian president further said.

Ukraine says it is ready for negotiations, but not for synchronization

At the same time, Ukraine’s Deputy Prime Minister and Economy Minister Yulia Sviridenko said the position of principle at the London meeting is that Ukraine is ready to negotiate, but not to give up.

“Today, as the Ukrainian delegation meets with partners in London, we confirm our principled position: Ukraine is ready for negotiations, but not for capitulation. There will be no agreement that will give Russia the stronger foundation it needs to regroup and return with greater violence.”

According to the Ukrainian official, a complete ceasefire – on the ground, in the air, and at sea – is a necessary first step. If Russia opts for a limited ceasefire, Ukraine will respond in the same way, he added.

“Our people will not accept a frozen conflict disguised as peace. We will never recognize the occupation of Crimea. And if NATO membership is not granted, Ukraine will demand binding security guarantees – strong enough to deter future aggression and clear enough to ensure lasting peace.”