Vladimir Putin declared a two-day halt to fighting in Ukraine on May 8th and 9th, coinciding with Victory Day, but Kyiv dismissed the offer as insincere.
Russia Declares Ceasefire
Vladimir Putin announced a two-day suspension of military operations in Ukraine, effective May 8th and 9th, according to Reuters citing Russian news agency RIA Novosti.
The ceasefire is linked to the commemoration of the Soviet victory over Nazi Germany in World War II, referred to as the Great Patriotic War in Russia.
Ukrainian Response and Concerns
The Russian Defense Ministry expressed hope that Ukraine would reciprocate the ceasefire along the front lines.
However, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky rejected the proposal as “dishonest,” stating Kyiv had not received an official offer for a ceasefire on May 9th, as reported by Interfax-Ukraine.
Moscow Parade to Proceed Without Military Display
This year’s Victory Day parade in Moscow’s Red Square will not include a display of military equipment.
Zelensky suggested Ukrainian drones could potentially fly over the parade on May 8th.
Trump’s Role in Potential Truce
On April 29th, former U.S. President Donald Trump revealed a phone conversation with Putin where they discussed the possibility of a “small ceasefire” in Ukraine.
Trump stated he “suggested a small cessation of hostilities” and believed Putin could announce it, questioning if he had already done so.
Previous Ceasefire Violations
The last ceasefire, declared for Orthodox Easter on April 11th and 12th, lasted 32 hours.
The Ukrainian Armed Forces General Staff reported 10,721 violations of the “Easter ceasefire” by Russian forces.
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