Kremlin Says Ukraine’s Consent Not Needed for Ceasefire as Zelensky Rejects ‘Theatre’

Zelensky called Moscow’s proposed Victory Day truce “manipulative” theater, while the Kremlin said the ceasefire will proceed regardless of Kyiv’s response. Make us preferred on Google Share Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Bluesky Email Copy Copied Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov at the Diaoyutai State Guesthouse in Beijing on September 2, 2025. (Photo by Maxim Shemetov / POOL / AFP) Content Share Facebook X (Twitter) LinkedIn Bluesky Email Copy Copied Flip Make us preferred on Google The Kremlin said on Thursday that Russia does not require Ukraine’s agreement to implement President Vladimir Putin’s proposed ceasefire during Victory Day commemorations on May 9, describing the move as a unilateral decision by Moscow. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov told reporters that the temporary halt in hostilities “will be implemented” regardless of Kyiv’s response and stressed that “a response is not, in fact, required.” Follow our coverage of the war on the @Kyivpost_official . “The decision has been made by the Supreme Commander-in-Chief,” Peskov said, referring to Putin. Peskov’s comments came after Zelensky dismissed Russia’s short-term ceasefire proposal as “manipulative” and a “theatrical performance” aimed at securing Moscow’s Victory Day parades rather than advancing peace. Russia announced earlier this week that it intends to suspend military operations around the annual Victory Day celebrations marking the Soviet Union’s defeat of Nazi Germany in World War II. The holiday is one of the Kremlin’s most important political and symbolic events and traditionally features large military parades in Moscow and other cities. Zelensky said he had instructed his team to contact the Trump administration to clarify whether the proposal discussed between Trump and Putin amounted only to “a few hours of security for a parade” or something more substantial. Ukraine has instead demanded an unconditional 30-day ceasefire as a first step to test Russia’s genuine willingness to pursue a lasting peace. Other Topics of Interest Russia May Seek Sanctions Relief in Exchange for Ceasefire The remarks follow reports that Vladimir Putin discussed potential ceasefire arrangements with Donald Trump ahead of Russia’s Victory Day celebrations. “We value human lives, not parades,” Zelensky said, adding that Kyiv would not accept a temporary pause that merely allows Russian forces to regroup. Kyiv Post is Ukraine’s first and oldest English news organization since 1995. Its international market reach of 97% outside of Ukraine makes it truly Ukraine’s Global – and most reliable – Voice.