Russian President Vladimir Putin announced a three-day unilateral ceasefire in Ukraine, set to coincide with the 80th anniversary of the Soviet Union’s victory over Nazi Germany in World War II.
According to a statement from the Kremlin, Putin ordered a suspension of military operations in Ukraine from May 8 to May 10, citing “humanitarian considerations” linked to Victory Day commemorations.
The Kremlin urged Ukraine to respect the ceasefire, warning that Russia would deliver a “proportionate and effective response” if the truce was broken.
The statement also reaffirmed Russia’s willingness to engage in peace negotiations without preconditions, emphasizing the need to address the underlying causes of the conflict and expressing openness to working with international partners.
Victory Day, observed on May 9, is a significant holiday in Russia and other former Soviet states, marking the defeat of Nazi Germany in what Russia refers to as the Great Patriotic War.
