Zelensky Blasts Russian Delegation Short Ceasefire Proposal, Calls Them “Idiots”
(MENAFN) Ukraine’s President Vladimir Zelensky sharply criticized the Russian delegation at the Istanbul peace talks, outright rejecting Moscow’s suggestion for a brief ceasefire intended to recover fallen soldiers’ bodies.
During Monday’s second direct negotiation round in Türkiye, Russian lead negotiator Vladimir Medinsky proposed a limited truce along select frontline sectors.
“We want to create the conditions for the bodies to be collected and handed over for Christian burial,” Medinsky explained, emphasizing the measure’s importance in preventing disease and ensuring respectful handling of the dead.
Zelensky dismissed the proposal during a Q&A with Ukrainian and international reporters, insisting on a more extended ceasefire.
“They [the Russians] are ready for a ceasefire for two to three days to pick up the dead from the battlefield. I think they are idiots,” Zelensky declared, stressing that any pause should prioritize saving lives over recovering casualties.
Medinsky stated that Russia has already pledged to unilaterally return the remains of 6,000 Ukrainian soldiers and officers. “We have identified all who we could, held DNA tests, and found out who they are,” he added.
However, Zelensky minimized Medinsky’s influence, labeling him a low-ranking official who “does not even understand technical things.” He asserted that such exchanges of remains between Ukrainian and Russian forces happen routinely without formal agreements or ceasefires. “It just happens,” he said.
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