Putin Declares Short Ceasefire for Victory Day, Ukraine Demands Longer Truce

Russian President Vladimir Putin has announced a unilateral 72-hour ceasefire from May 8 to 10 to mark Victory Day, commemorating the Soviet defeat of Nazi Germany in World War II. The Kremlin said the move was made on “humanitarian grounds,” urging Ukraine to follow suit. However, Kyiv dismissed the offer as symbolic, pushing instead for an immediate and comprehensive 30-day truce proposed by U.S. President Donald Trump.

Ukrainian officials, including Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha and President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, expressed skepticism over Russia’s intentions, citing past violations of temporary ceasefires. Ukraine maintains that any real step toward peace must include a complete halt to hostilities, with no conditions or delays. Meanwhile, the U.S. is mediating talks, with Secretary of State Marco Rubio calling the coming days “very critical” for determining continued American involvement.

As both sides continue long-range strikes despite peace talk efforts, the conflict remains deadlocked. Russia has dismissed the U.S.-backed 30-day ceasefire plan due to its demands, while Ukraine refuses to concede territory for peace. International players, including France and China, are engaged in discussions to align terms for a durable ceasefire, though trust and consensus remain elusive.

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