Russian President Vladimir Putin has announced a three-day ceasefire in Ukraine, set to commence on May 8 and conclude on May 11, coinciding with Russia’s Victory Day celebrations marking the end of World War Two.
In response to the announcement, Ukraine’s Foreign Minister, Andrii Sybiha, has called for an immediate ceasefire lasting “at least 30 days.” Meanwhile, the White House, through press secretary Karoline Leavitt, stated that President Donald Trump desires a permanent ceasefire.
The Kremlin’s announcement of this temporary truce follows a previous 30-hour ceasefire attempt over Easter, which, despite a reported dip in fighting, saw both sides accusing each other of numerous violations. Notably, previous ceasefire attempts in Ukraine, numbering over 20, have all ultimately failed, some collapsing within minutes of implementation.
The Easter truce, in particular, was limited in scope and only resulted in a marginal reduction in hostilities, with both Russia and Ukraine alleging breaches by the other.
In a statement released on Monday, the Kremlin attributed the three-day ceasefire to “humanitarian considerations.” The statement further asserted, “Russia believes that the Ukrainian side should follow this example. In the event of violations of the ceasefire by the Ukrainian side, the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation will give an adequate and effective response. The Russian side once again declares its readiness for peace talks without preconditions, aimed at eliminating the root causes of the Ukrainian crisis, and constructive interaction with international partners.”
Following the Kremlin’s announcement, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Sybiha responded, “If Russia truly wants peace, it must cease fire immediately. Why wait until May 8th? If the fire can be ceased now and since any date for 30 days—so it is real, not just for a parade.” He emphasized Ukraine’s readiness to support a “lasting, durable, and full ceasefire. And this is what we are constantly proposing, for at least 30 days.”
White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt stated that President Trump is “increasingly frustrated with leaders of both countries.” She added, “He wants to see a permanent ceasefire. I understand Vladimir Putin this morning offered a temporary ceasefire. The president has made it clear he wants to see a permanent ceasefire first to stop the killing, stop the bloodshed.” Sources and related content
