Budanov: Russia keeps inventing new reasons not to agree to ceasefire

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has persistently advocated for an immediate ceasefire, yet Russia remains unyielding in its refusal to accept de-escalation. Kyrylo Budanov, who heads Ukraine's Presidential Office, disclosed in an interview with NewsForce on September 25 that Ukraine's stance on ending the hostilities is clear and publicly acknowledged.

However, Budanov emphasized that Russia consistently devises fresh excuses to refuse a ceasefire. He further underscored the war's prolonged duration, asserting its necessity for an end.

Moreover, Budanov highlighted the United States' role in facilitating peace negotiations. He pointed out that Washington is providing opportunities for Ukraine to advance toward peace. On September 25, Russian President Vladimir Putin reportedly expressed readiness to reinitiate talks with Kyiv post-elections, alleging that Ukraine had sought to attack Moscow.

On September 23, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio suggested that both Ukraine and Russia were amenable to a limited ceasefire focusing on grain and energy concerns. Prior to his meeting with Zelenskyy in New York, President Donald Trump consistently conveyed his expectation that Zelenskyy cease attacks on Russian oil refineries due to the repercussions on the global fuel market.

Zelenskyy, in response, stated that Ukraine would halt strikes on Russian refineries if Russia, in return, halted assaults on Ukrainian critical infrastructure, food exports, and the energy sector. On September 22 in New York, Zelenskyy reiterated his willingness for any format of an energy ceasefire with Russia, contingent upon reciprocity.

On September 23, a joint declaration by 51 U.N. member states affirmed Ukraine's agreement to a full, immediate, and unconditional ceasefire since March 2025 and urged Russia to adopt a similar stance.