Russia ignoring ceasefire offer, seeks to prolong war: Ukrainian top diplomat

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha said Monday that Russia continues to reject a full and lasting ceasefire proposal set to begin today, claiming Moscow is intent on prolonging the war instead of seeking peace.

Speaking online at a high-level meeting hosted by British Foreign Secretary David Lammy, Sybiha said he briefed counterparts from Germany, Italy, Spain, Poland, France, and the EU's top diplomat Kaja Kallas on the latest situation at the frontline, based on updates from Ukraine's army chief.

“Russians are completely ignoring the offer of a full and durable ceasefire starting on May 12. They continue to attack Ukrainian positions all along the frontline,” he wrote on X. “Moscow squanders another opportunity to put an end to the killings.”

The meeting focused on peace initiatives and coordination with the US. Sybiha underlined that this week's joint efforts would be critical in pushing forward accountability measures and diplomatic engagement.

“Ukraine is making every effort to end the war and give diplomacy a chance,” he noted.

He also said President Volodymyr Zelenskyy had offered to meet Russian President Vladimir Putin in person on Thursday, but has not received a response.