Russia states that it is awaiting Ukraine’s reply regarding the May ceasefire and proposal for direct negotiations.

On Tuesday, the Kremlin stated that Ukraine had not replied to multiple proposals from Russian President Vladimir Putin to begin direct peace talks, and it was uncertain if Ukraine would participate in a three-day ceasefire he has declared for next month.

“It was President Putin who repeatedly said that Russia is ready, without any preconditions, to start the negotiations process,” Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters. “We have not heard a response from the Kyiv regime so far.”

On Monday, Putin announced a three-day ceasefire in the Ukraine conflict from May 8-10, coinciding with Russia’s grand celebrations for the 80th anniversary of its victory against Nazi Germany in World War Two.

In reply, Ukraine asked why Moscow was unwilling to accept its request for a ceasefire that would last a minimum of 30 days and commence right away.

“We value people’s lives and not parades,” President Volodymr Zelenskiy said.

Peskov said it was “very difficult to understand” whether Ukraine intended to join the ceasefire.