Ukraine supports the idea of a Christmas truce proposed by the German Chancellor

Volodymyr Zelenskyy supported the idea of a Christmas truce proposed by the German Chancellor. Photo: Office of the President

President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy has expressed support for the initiative of German Chancellor Friedrich Merz to end hostilities for the Christmas period.

According to the head of state, this proposal was discussed during talks with the American side, and the United States supported this approach, «Ukrinform» reports.

Volodymyr Zelenskyy stressed that Ukraine has a positive attitude to any ceasefire format, including an energy truce.

«The United States of America supports this idea. As president I certainly support this idea. I believe that an energy ceasefire is fine, and we will support any ceasefire. We generally support both Europe and the United States in steps to end the war,» Volodymyr Zelenskyy said.

At the same time, the President noted that the implementation of any ceasefire largely depends on the political will of the Russian side.

Earlier, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said that international partners plan to appeal to the Russian government with a proposal to end hostilities at least for the Christmas holidays. He stressed that in recent months, the war has primarily resulted in civilian deaths and suffering, with attacks targeting kindergartens, schools and residential infrastructure.

«Over the past weeks and months, this war has been mainly destroying civilians, kindergartens and schools. This is a terror of civilians in Ukraine. And perhaps the Russian government has some remnants of humanity and will leave people alone for a few days, at least during Christmas,» said Friedrich Merz.

It should be noted that Germany has decided to provide Ukraine with another 40 million euros in winter aid due to Russia's constant attacks on Ukrainian infrastructure. The allocated funds will be used to repair heating systems and damaged housing, purchase generators, and supply the most necessary items such as blankets, hygiene products and other humanitarian aid.