MOSCOW: Russian President Vladimir Putin has announced a temporary ceasefire with Ukraine from May 8 to 10, coinciding with the 80th anniversary of Russia’s victory in World War II.
According to the Kremlin, the pause in hostilities is a gesture to mark upcoming Victory Day commemorations, with celebrations expected to culminate on May 10. Several world leaders, including Chinese President Xi Jinping, are set to attend ceremonies in Moscow.
Russia expressed hope that Ukraine would also respect the ceasefire. However, Ukraine responded with scepticism. The Ukrainian Foreign Minister stated that if Russia truly wanted peace, it should implement an immediate and permanent ceasefire rather than waiting until May 8.
This is not the first such gesture. Russia previously declared a truce during Easter, but both sides later accused each other of repeatedly violating the agreement.
The brief truce is being watched closely by the international community, though expectations of lasting calm remain low amid the ongoing war.
