Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has dismissed a proposed three-day ceasefire by Russian President Vladimir Putin, denouncing it as a manipulative move aimed at shaping the narrative of the ongoing war.

In a video address posted on the social media platform X on Monday, April 28, Zelensky questioned the motives behind the Kremlin’s offer, which is set to take place from May 8 to 10—coinciding with Russia’s Victory Day celebrations.

“Now there’s a new attempt at manipulation: for some reason, everyone has to wait until May 8,” Zelensky said. “If Russia truly wants peace, it must cease fire immediately.”

Putin’s announcement, earlier in the day, framed the temporary truce as a gesture of goodwill. However, Ukrainian officials swiftly rejected the proposal, criticizing both the limited timeframe and its symbolic timing.

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiga echoed Zelensky’s stance, advocating instead for a longer cessation of hostilities. “Why wait until May 8?” he posted on X, calling for an immediate ceasefire of at least 30 days.

The proposal has also been met with skepticism from international observers. The United States described the coming week as “critical” in assessing the authenticity of Russia’s peace overtures and the potential for genuine progress toward ending the conflict.