"We agreed that a full and unconditional ceasefire must begin on Monday, May 12, for at least 30 days. We jointly demand this from Russia, and we know we are supported in this by the United States," Zelensky said.
The announcement follows mounting fears that the two nuclear-armed countries were on the brink of engaging in another full-scale war.
Ukrainian media outlet ZN.UA reported on May 10 that their law enforcement sources confirmed an ongoing probe by the National Anti-Corruption Bureau into suspected embezzlement, money laundering and bribery.
Iran is preparing to send Russia Fath-360 short-range ballistic missile launchers, Reuters reported on May 9, citing Western security and regional officials familiar with the matter.
"Ukraine and all allies are ready for a complete unconditional ceasefire on land, in the air, and at sea for at least 30 days, starting as early as Monday," Ukraine's Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha wrote.
U.S. President Donald Trump has acknowledged in private that Russia is difficult to negotiate with because they "want the whole thing," referring to Ukraine, the WSJ reported, citing sources familiar with the comments.
The visit marks Merz’s first trip to Ukraine, and the first time all four leaders have travelled there together.
A notice about the airspace closure was published on the U.S. Defense Department's NOTAM (Notice to Airmen) website on May 10, as cited by Ukrainian defense news outlet Militarnyi.
"As in the past, it is now for Russia to show its willingness to achieve peace," the EU's statement reads.
Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov rejected the idea of a 30-day ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine, claiming in an interview with ABC News on May 10 that it would be "an advantage" for Ukraine.
"Our involvement in the war was justifiable, and this belongs to our sovereign rights," North Korean dictator Kim Jong Un said. "I regard this as part of the sacred mission we must execute for our brothers and comrades-in-arms."
The number includes 1,310 casualties that Russian forces suffered over the past day.
EU approves its first-ever military support for Armenia
The Council of the European Union for the first time approved assistance under the European Peace Facility (EPF) to support the Armenian Armed Forces with 10 million euros ($10.8 million), according to the council's July 22 statement.
Armenia has long maintained close ties with Russia but is now seeking to distance itself from Moscow. Russian "peacekeepers" did nothing to prevent Azerbaijan's lightning offensive into Nagorno-Karabakh last September.
Disappointed with Russia and fearing renewed hostilities with Baku, Yerevan has been turning West for new partnerships.
EU ambassadors approved the launch of a visa-free dialogue with Armenia last week and, for the first time in history, agreed to allocate military aid from the EPF to the country.
The EU's financial support aims to strengthen the Armenian Armed Forces' logistical capacity and contribute to improving civilian protection during crises and emergencies, according to the council's statement.
The aid will also help to accelerate the interoperability of Armenian forces in case the country may participate in future international military missions and operations, including those deployed by the EU.
"Security is an increasingly important element of our bilateral relations with Armenia. This European Peace Facility measure will further contribute to the country's resilience," the EU's top diplomat, Josep Borrell, said.
"We have a mutual interest to further scale up our dialogue on foreign and security policy, also looking into Armenia's future participation in EU-led missions and operations," Borrell added.
Despite ongoing talks between Armenia and Azerbaijan, there are fears that Baku may launch a fresh offensive targeting Armenia itself. Azerbaijani officials have denied such intentions.
The European Peace Facility (EPF) was established in March 2021 to finance actions under the common foreign and security policy to prevent conflicts, preserve peace, and strengthen international security and stability.
Ukraine also received financial assistance through this facility. Funding to the EPF is provided through tranches that individual member states can block.
The Kyiv Independent news desk
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