Putin Declares 3-Day Ceasefire in Ukraine from May 8, Urges Kyiv to Follow
Russian President Vladimir Putin on Monday announced a three-day ceasefire in Ukraine from May 8 to 10, calling on Kyiv to reciprocate, the Kremlin said.
The Kremlin stated that the ceasefire would coincide with Moscow’s celebrations marking the 80th anniversary of Victory Day, a major national holiday. “Based on humanitarian considerations, the Russian side is declaring a truce during the 80th anniversary of Victory Day,” the Kremlin said in a statement.
The truce will be effective from the beginning of May 8 until the end of May 10, during which “all hostilities” are to cease. Russia urged Ukraine to observe the ceasefire, warning that any violations would be met with “an adequate and effective response” from Russian forces.
Earlier this year, Russia announced a 30-hour ceasefire during Easter celebrations. However, both Moscow and Kyiv accused each other of violating the truce despite a noted dip in combat activity.
The effectiveness of the newly announced ceasefire remains uncertain, with past attempts frequently marred by mutual accusations of breach.
The announcement comes amid renewed diplomatic efforts by the United States to end the conflict, which has entered its third year. Former U.S. President Donald Trump recently called on Putin to “stop shooting” and “sign a deal” to end hostilities.
Despite multiple rounds of negotiations between U.S. officials and the Kremlin, Washington has yet to secure any lasting agreements on a ceasefire or peace terms.
Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine began in February 2022, leading to widespread devastation and international condemnation. While Ukraine has resisted Russian advances, both sides have suffered heavy casualties, and intermittent peace talks have repeatedly broken down.
The ongoing conflict continues to shape global geopolitics, with Western nations providing military and humanitarian aid to Kyiv and imposing sanctions on Moscow.
It remains to be seen whether the temporary ceasefire will hold or pave the way for broader peace discussions. Analysts suggest that sustained pressure from international stakeholders may be critical to ending the prolonged conflict.
