In a significant yet cautious move, Russian President Vladimir Putin announced a unilateral three-day ceasefire in the ongoing Ukraine conflict, set to take place from May 8 to May 10. The truce coincides with Russia’s Victory Day celebrations marking the 80th anniversary of the Soviet Union’s triumph over Nazi Germany in World War II. The Kremlin emphasized that the ceasefire is for “humanitarian reasons” and expects Ukraine to reciprocate, warning that any violations by Kyiv would be met with a strong and effective military response.
This ceasefire announcement comes amid intensified efforts by U.S. President Donald Trump’s administration to broker peace between the two warring nations. Trump has publicly expressed frustration over continued Russian missile strikes on Ukrainian civilian areas but remains cautiously optimistic about a potential settlement, calling the situation “close” to resolution. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio described the upcoming week as “very critical” in determining whether the U.S. will continue its involvement in peace negotiations.
Despite Russia’s declaration, Ukraine has expressed deep skepticism. President Volodymyr Zelenskiy and his officials have rejected the short, delayed ceasefire, demanding an immediate and longer-lasting truce of at least 30 days. Zelenskiy criticized the timing, stating that Russia’s offer appears more aimed at securing a quiet period for its Victory Day parade than genuine peace. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha underscored that if Russia truly desires peace, it must cease hostilities immediately rather than waiting until May 8.
The ceasefire follows a previous short-lived truce declared by Russia during Easter, which lasted only 30 hours amid ongoing accusations of violations from both sides. The fragile nature of these agreements highlights the deep mistrust and complexity of the conflict, which has now extended over three years.
Meanwhile, Moscow is using the ceasefire announcement to signal openness to peace talks, although it continues to reject Ukraine’s proposals and insists on recognition of its territorial gains, including Crimea and parts of eastern Ukraine-demands embedded in the peace framework reportedly supported by the Trump administration but viewed by Kyiv as heavily biased toward Russia. As the May 8 ceasefire approaches, the world watches cautiously. The temporary pause offers a brief hope for de-escalation but also underscores the immense challenges that remain before a lasting peace can be achieved in Ukraine.