By Burnett Munthali
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has leveled strong accusations against Russia, claiming that Moscow is fabricating an illusion of peace while continuing to carry out military operations in parts of Ukraine.
According to Zelensky, Russia is deliberately creating what he termed an “impression” of a ceasefire, using it as a smokescreen to disguise ongoing offensive maneuvers on the ground.
The Ukrainian leader expressed concern that this tactic is misleading the international community, making it appear as if Russia is abiding by peace agreements or reducing hostilities, when in reality, certain regions in Ukraine remain under siege.
He emphasized that while the world may perceive a slowdown or pause in hostilities, Ukrainian soldiers and civilians in affected areas are still enduring shelling, drone attacks, and other forms of aggression.
Zelensky noted that this deceptive approach by Russia is a calculated strategy aimed at confusing observers, weakening international pressure, and buying time to regroup and reinforce military positions.
He also warned that such dual behavior undermines any prospects for genuine peace and violates the fundamental principles of international law and human rights.
Zelensky further pointed out that Russia’s actions are not isolated but part of a broader pattern of duplicity seen throughout the conflict, where public declarations often contradict actions on the battlefield.
He called on Ukraine’s allies and international bodies not to be swayed by Russia’s diplomatic rhetoric, but instead to focus on verifiable facts and the actual conditions experienced by people on the ground.
According to him, the only way to ensure peace is through transparency, accountability, and an end to the manipulation of public perception for geopolitical gain.
He urged the global community to maintain pressure on Moscow, provide sustained military and humanitarian support to Ukraine, and refuse to be lulled into a false sense of progress.
Zelensky’s remarks come amid reports of sporadic clashes in eastern and southern parts of Ukraine, even as some media outlets highlight supposed de-escalation efforts.
He reiterated that Ukraine remains committed to a peaceful resolution of the conflict but will not tolerate any form of deceit that endangers the lives of its people.
He concluded by saying that peace cannot be built on a foundation of lies, and that Ukraine will continue to expose and resist any attempts to distort the reality of the war.
Zelensky’s statement serves as a stark reminder that in the fog of war, perception can be weaponized just as powerfully as missiles — and that vigilance, not wishful thinking, must guide the world’s response.
