Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has expressed support for a ceasefire in the Middle East and the Gulf region, emphasizing its potential to facilitate diplomatic efforts. He urged Russia to halt its military actions against Ukraine, stating that a ceasefire is crucial for saving lives and preventing further destruction.
In a Telegram message dated April 8, Zelensky stated, “A ceasefire is the right decision that leads to the end of the war. It preserves lives, prevents the destruction of cities and villages, and allows infrastructure, including power plants, to function normally. This creates the necessary conditions for diplomacy to yield results.” He reiterated Ukraine’s readiness to respond in kind if Russia ceases its attacks.
Zelensky noted that Ukraine has been actively involved in supporting stability in the Middle East and the Gulf for weeks. He mentioned that Ukrainian military expert teams would continue their work in the region to enhance security capabilities.
He further highlighted the global implications of the situation, stating, “Any threats to security and stability in the Middle East and the Gulf escalate challenges for economies and the cost of living in every country. Therefore, security must be guaranteed, and the interests of every nation should be considered in determining post-war conditions. Protecting freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz is also fundamentally important.”
On the same day, U.S. President Donald Trump announced a two-week ceasefire agreement with Iran, during which both parties will negotiate a comprehensive peace deal. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi confirmed Tehran’s agreement, stating that safe passage through the Strait of Hormuz would be ensured during this period.
Media reports indicate that the first round of negotiations between the U.S. and Iran regarding the ceasefire agreement is scheduled for April 10 in Islamabad, marking the first in-person discussions since the onset of the conflict.
As tensions in the Middle East escalate, trilateral talks involving Ukraine, the U.S., and Russia, which took place in January and February, have been postponed indefinitely. However, Zelensky has expressed optimism, stating that he does not believe these negotiations have reached a deadlock.
On April 1, Zelensky reported a productive conversation with U.S. representatives, including Stephen Witkoff and Jared Kushner, along with Senator Lindsey Graham and NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte. He noted that an agreement was reached for ongoing communication between Ukrainian and U.S. teams to strengthen security guarantees.
Additionally, Zelensky mentioned that Ukraine has formally requested a ceasefire for Easter. He acknowledged uncertainty regarding whether the U.S. could relay this message to Russia but affirmed that Ukraine’s proposal remains on the table.
On April 6, Zelensky indicated that Ukraine would refrain from striking Russian oil refining and export infrastructure if Russia ceases its attacks on Ukrainian energy facilities. However, there has been no indication that the Russian side supports a ceasefire.
Ukrainian President Zelensky has called for a ceasefire with Russia, linking it to broader diplomatic efforts in the Middle East. He emphasized the humanitarian and infrastructural benefits of such a move while reiterating Ukraine's readiness to respond reciprocally if hostilities cease.