EU Rejects Putin’s Three-Day Ceasefire as Insufficient
The European Union has dismissed Russia’s proposal for a three-day ceasefire from May 8 to May 10 as insufficient and symbolic, urging Moscow to end its war against Ukraine without delay, The Gaze reports.
“Our position on this is very clear: Russia could stop the killing and the bombing at any time. There is absolutely no need to wait until 8 May — they could do it right now,” said Anitta Hipper, spokesperson for the European Commission, during a briefing on April 29.
Russian President Vladimir Putin announced the short-term ceasefire to coincide with the 80th anniversary of the Soviet victory in World War II. The Kremlin claimed it would suspend hostilities during this period and called on Ukraine to reciprocate.
However, the EU and Kyiv remain skeptical. Hipper underscored that Russia has a long record of aggression and emphasized that the bloc would judge Moscow by its actions, not announcements:
“Russia has a track record as an aggressor, so we first need to see and judge Russia by its deeds.”
Ukraine has called for a broader, 30-day unconditional ceasefire, which Moscow has declined. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha said Kyiv supports a meaningful and lasting pause in fighting — not a symbolic gesture.
“We continue to support Ukraine for a long, just and comprehensive peace,” the EU spokesperson reiterated.
Watch more on The Gaze YouTube: Putin Seeks ‘Achievements’ in War by 9 May but Has Nothing to Brag About, Expert Says