Zelenskyy, in Prague, says ceasefire possible anytime, urges allies to ramp up pressure on Moscow. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated on Sunday that a ceasefire with Russia could happen at any moment, urging Kyiv's allies to intensify pressure on Moscow to implement the measure. Speaking at a joint news conference in Prague with Czech President Petr Pavel Zelenskyy said that without increased pressure, Russian President Vladimir Putin would not take meaningful steps to end the conflict.

"We believe that without increased pressure, Russia will not take real practical steps to end the war. Today marks the 54th day that Russia has ignored even the American proposal to completely cease fire," Zelenskyy said, according to Reuters. "We believe that a ceasefire is possible at any moment, even starting today, and should last at least 30 days to give diplomacy a real chance."

Notably, last week, Putin announced a three-day ceasefire from May 8-10 to mark the 80th anniversary of the Soviet Union and its allies' victory over Nazi Germany in World War II. Zelenskyy said such a measure is pointless and has called instead for an unconditional ceasefire over at least 30 days in line with a US proposal launched in March. Since Russia's invasion of Ukraine in 2022, the Czech government has been a staunch supporter of Kyiv and has led an initiative to supply Ukraine with large-caliber ammunition.

Ukrainian President Zelenskyy stated that instead of showcasing tanks at the May 9 victory parade, Putin should focus on finding ways to end his war. "Three things are needed. More sanctions against Russia, continued support for Ukraine, and a significant increase in defence cooperation across Europe ," he said.

"Russia must know that Europeans will defend themselves." Accompanied by first lady Olena Zelenska , Zelenskyy will meet Czech Prime Minister Petr Fiala on Monday, with the Czech ammunition initiative among the key topics of discussion.