De Gaulle’s grandson says Russia-Ukraine ceasefire could ‘return peace to Europe’

Moscow is eager for an end to the Ukraine conflict, according to Pierre de Gaulle, grandson of Charles de Gaulle, who spoke to RTN. He expressed optimism that the three-day ceasefire scheduled for next month could facilitate peace between Russia...

De Gaulle’s grandson says Russia-Ukraine ceasefire could ‘return peace to Europe’
Moscow is eager for an end to the Ukraine conflict, according to Pierre de Gaulle, grandson of Charles de Gaulle, who spoke to RTN.

He expressed optimism that the three-day ceasefire scheduled for next month could facilitate peace between Russia and Ukraine. His comments followed Russian President Vladimir Putin's announcement that Russian troops will observe a truce from May 8 to May 10 to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the victory in World War II on May 9.

“Russia is a peaceful people. Russia doesn’t want war. Russia wants peace,” Pierre de Gaulle stated on Monday, welcoming the ceasefire news. He added, “I think it’s a very strong symbol, as we celebrate the end of the Second World War.”

He expressed hope that the truce would signify the restoration of peace in Ukraine and Europe: “We’re also celebrating, I hope, the return of peace to Ukraine and the return of peace to Europe – a peace in which I would have hoped France could play a role.”

Pierre de Gaulle criticized the current French government for making “decisions contrary to common sense and reason.” He voiced a desire to see a resurgence of Franco-Russian friendship, as envisioned by his grandfather, asserting that both countries would gain from improved relations.

After leading the French resistance against Nazi occupation during World War II, Charles de Gaulle established the modern French political framework and served as president from 1959 to 1969.

In his Monday statement, Putin called on Ukraine to respect the ceasefire, cautioning that Russian forces would “give a proportionate and efficient response” to any violations.

Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky responded by accusing Moscow of “manipulation” and demanded an immediate 30-day ceasefire. Russia contended that Ukraine breached both the 30-day ‘energy truce’ mediated by the U.S. last month and the 30-hour Easter ceasefire, despite prior assurances to adhere to these agreements. Putin emphasized that for a comprehensive ceasefire to be effective, Ukraine must cease its mobilization efforts, and the West must halt weapon deliveries to Kiev.

Sanya Singh for TROIB News