Ukraine, European countries and the United States have agreed to begin a full and unconditional ceasefire starting Monday, May 12. It is to last at least 30 days. If the Kremlin refuses a full and unconditional ceasefire, it will face new sanctions. This was stated by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at a press conference following a meeting with the "Coalition of the Willing."
"We have agreed that a complete and unconditional ceasefire should begin on Monday, May 12, for at least 30 days. We are together demanding this from Russia, we know that the United States of America supports us in this," the president emphasized.
He noted that an unconditional ceasefire means “without any conditions.” He said that attempting to impose any conditions is evidence of an intention to drag out the war and disrupt diplomacy.
The President stressed that the ceasefire must be comprehensive: in the air, at sea, and on land. At the same time, he noted that monitoring the ceasefire is quite possible in coordination with the United States of America.
"This is really realistic. The ceasefire should last 30 days to give diplomacy a real chance. During this time, work will focus on defining the security, political, humanitarian foundations of peace," Zelensky added.
He noted that Ukraine is pleased that the demand for a ceasefire and a transition to meaningful diplomacy is supported by everyone, not only European countries, but also the United States of America, which was the first to propose it.
"By the way, back on March 11 during a meeting in Saudi Arabia," — the head of Ukraine noted.
According to the President, a clear priority is to strengthen the Defense and Security Forces of Ukraine as the main guarantee of Ukraine's sovereignty and security. At the same time, he emphasized that a key element of security guarantees should also be the support contingent.
What threatens Russia in case of refusal
"If Russia refuses a full and unconditional ceasefire, sanctions must be applied," — Zelensky emphasized.
He explained that sanctions against its energy sector and banking system would be strengthened.
"A strong 17th package of sanctions by the European Union is underway. It will be coordinated with sanctions on the UK, Norway and the US. We welcome Canada's strong signal of strengthening sanctions on their part," — the president added.
He said that Ukraine has agreed with its partners to continue working on the effective use of Russia's frozen assets. This is planned to be discussed at the next G7 summit.
Thank you for being with us! Monobank for the support of the ElitExpert editorial office.
