Russia continues to disregard Ukraine’s call for peace, with the UK accusing the Kremlin of deliberately prolonging the war by rejecting a 30-day ceasefire.
Neil Holland, the UK’s Head of Delegation to the OSCE (Organisation for Security and Co-operation in Europe), delivered the strong message during a Permanent Council meeting in Vienna.
❝ Russia Had a Chance for Peace — But Chose War ❞
“It is now a full 22 days since Ukraine expressed its readiness to accept an immediate 30-day ceasefire,” Holland said. “The only condition was that Russia must also agree. Instead of seizing the chance for peace, Russia continues to fight — sacrificing more innocent lives.”
Holland added that over 1,000 drones were launched by Russia against Ukrainian cities just last week, underscoring Moscow’s ongoing aggression.
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Peace Delayed, Lives Lost
Holland accused Russian President Vladimir Putin of stalling peace efforts led by the United States and instead fueling confusion by falsely blaming Ukraine for ceasefire violations.
“We see no evidence that Putin is seriously preparing for peace,” he emphasized.
“Doubting President Zelenskyy’s authority is just a smokescreen. The real issue is Russia’s refusal to negotiate.”
Background
- On March 11, Ukraine offered to begin a 30-day ceasefire if Russia also agreed.
- March 20: Analysts at the Institute for the Study of War (ISW) said Putin was sowing confusion by accusing Ukraine of ceasefire breaches — even before any deal was finalized.
- Experts expect no full ceasefire agreement within the next three weeks.
