Russian President Vladimir Putin has announced a 72-hour ceasefire in Ukraine from May 8 to May 10 to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the Soviet Union’s victory over Nazi Germany in World War II. The Kremlin stated that the ceasefire, which coincides with Victory Day on May 9, was declared on humanitarian grounds.
The Kremlin emphasized that all military actions would cease during this period and urged Ukraine to reciprocate, warning that the Russian military would respond decisively to any violations by Ukraine. However, Kyiv has reacted with skepticism, calling the ceasefire insufficient and reiterating support for a U.S.-proposed 30-day ceasefire instead. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has signaled openness to engage in peace talks only once hostilities have stopped, but maintains Ukraine will not surrender territory for peace.
This ceasefire announcement follows a 30-hour Easter truce and a 30-day non-strike agreement on energy infrastructure, which failed after both sides accused each other of violating the agreement.
