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Russian President Vladimir Putin has declared a temporary ceasefire in Ukraine, set to run from the morning of May 8 to May 11, coinciding with Russia’s annual Victory Day celebrations commemorating the end of World War Two.
The Kremlin said the ceasefire was declared “based on humanitarian considerations,” and urged Ukraine to reciprocate. It warned, however, that any violations by Ukrainian forces would be met with an “adequate and effective response” by Russia’s military. The statement also reiterated Russia’s readiness to engage in peace talks “without preconditions.”
In response, Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha called for a more meaningful ceasefire, urging an immediate halt to fighting lasting “at least 30 days.” Posting on social media, Sybiha questioned why a ceasefire should wait until May 8, emphasizing that Ukraine is prepared to support a “lasting, durable, and full ceasefire” starting immediately.
Ceasefire attempts have been a recurring but largely unsuccessful feature of the war in Ukraine. More than 20 ceasefires have been attempted since Russia launched its full-scale invasion in February 2022, but all have eventually collapsed — some within minutes. The most recent truce, a 30-hour pause over Easter, saw only a slight reduction in hostilities, with both sides accusing each other of numerous violations.
The announcement comes amid intensified efforts by the United States to broker a lasting peace deal. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt said President Donald Trump, who has been attempting to mediate between Kyiv and Moscow, is “increasingly frustrated” with both sides over the lack of progress.
“He wants to see a permanent ceasefire,” Leavitt said. “The president has made it clear he wants the killing and bloodshed to stop.”
Washington has described this week as “very critical” for Russia-Ukraine peace efforts. The Trump administration has warned it may withdraw from mediation efforts if there is no tangible progress soon.
Diplomatic observers note that Putin’s offer of a brief truce appears aimed at demonstrating goodwill, particularly to Washington, as Ukraine has already signaled acceptance of the US proposal for a broader, 30-day ceasefire.
The backdrop remains grim. Since Russia’s invasion in February 2022, it has seized roughly 20% of Ukrainian territory, including Crimea, which Moscow annexed in 2014. Hundreds of thousands of people — the majority soldiers from both sides — have been killed or wounded during the ongoing conflict.
As the world watches for signs of de-escalation, it remains to be seen whether this latest ceasefire attempt will break the cycle of violence — or simply become another short-lived pause in a devastating war.
