Zelensky suggests immediate ceasefire

President Volodymyr Zelensky told Fox News on October 21 that he was ready to "freeze the front immediately," which some have interpreted as a proposal for a ceasefire. The same day, the Kremlin indicated that discussions could happen in November, according to the information forum Glavkom.

Analysis of Zelensky's remarks

Political scientist Oleh Saakian, speaking to Gazeta.ua, argued that Zelensky's comments reflect pressure on Ukraine. He claimed that U.S. President Donald Trump wants the country to surrender while maintaining the appearance of resistance, and that Zelensky is trying to use the situation to worsen conditions domestically.

Warnings about diplomatic risks

Vadym Denyssenko, a critic of Ukrainian government decisions, wrote on his blog that Ukraine should avoid falling into a "trap of diplomacy." He warned that Trump may remain in power after November 3 with significant influence, making it unwise to rely on his potential removal as a strategy. Denyssenko also said Ukraine is waiting for the U.S. election but faces risks if Trump remains president.

Ukraine's difficult position

Activist Valeri Pekar, writing for Glavkom, said Ukraine is caught between external and internal pressures with few options for compromise. He noted that while Ukraine seeks to survive, Russia appears determined to prevent that, leaving little room for negotiation.

Concerns about potential peace talks

Political scientist Mykhailo Basarab, writing for Gazeta.ua, criticized the possibility of negotiations, calling them a "carrot for populists who will destroy Ukraine." He warned that if the government yields to external and internal pressures, Ukraine could lose international aid and face a civil war. Basarab also suggested that a peace agreement could lead to serious conflict within the military and political leadership.

Recent developments in U.S.-Russia relations

Separately, it was reported that Trump has paused sanctions against Russia, disappointing Ukraine. Ukraine also defied Trump by conducting heavy bombing raids on Russia. Moscow released an American prisoner, and Witkoff referred to Putin as an "humanist." Reports also indicated that Putin and Zelensky are ready to resume trilateral negotiations with the United States.