Ukraine Welcomes Ceasefire Between the US and Iran, Urging Pressure on Russia

On April 8, 2026, the Ukrainian leadership welcomed a two-week ceasefire achieved between the United States and Iran, but underscored that it is time to exert pressure on Russia to also halt its military actions in Ukraine. Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiga stated on the social media platform X, "American resolve is working. We believe it is time for sufficient determination to compel Moscow to cease fire and end the war against Ukraine."

These comments came after Washington and Tehran announced the ceasefire, which was mediated by Pakistan. This ceasefire signals a de-escalation of the conflict that has persisted for over a month, leading to a sharp increase in energy prices and resulting in thousands of casualties.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky described the ceasefire as the "right decision," as it helps to avoid civilian casualties and the destruction of towns and villages, while also allowing energy infrastructure to function. He also highlighted Kyiv's readiness to assist regional countries in combating Shahed drone attacks, which are used daily in Russian assaults on Ukraine.

Iran has become a key ally of Russia during its full-scale war in Ukraine, supplying kamikaze drones and assisting Moscow in developing its own variants of this weaponry. President Zelensky noted, "Ukraine has always called for a ceasefire in the war that Russia is waging here in Europe against our state and our people."

"Ukraine is once again telling Russia: we are ready to respond in kind if the Russians stop their strikes," he added on social media. Kyiv had previously relayed a proposal for an energy ceasefire to Russia through intermediaries from the United States.

The potential Easter ceasefire suggests that Ukraine would halt drone attacks on Russian oil and gas facilities, while Moscow would refrain from attacking the Ukrainian energy grid. However, the Kremlin has rejected this initiative.

Efforts by the United States to mediate a peaceful resolution between Ukraine and Russia have significantly slowed in recent weeks, as President Donald Trump’s attention has shifted to the war with Iran. Russia has repeatedly dismissed the possibility of a ceasefire along the current front line, demanding that Ukraine cede all of Donbas, including territories still controlled by Ukrainian forces.