President Vladimir Putin ordered a 72-hour truce in Ukraine to coincide with the 80th anniversary of the Soviet victory over Nazi Germany. The pause in fighting is slated for May 8, 9, and 10, with May 9’s celebrations on Moscow’s Red Square to include international leaders such as China’s Xi Jinping.
Kremlin Confirms Truce Dates
On May 6, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov reiterated Moscow’s intention to uphold the ceasefire as directed by the Supreme Commander-in-Chief. He stated that Russian forces would observe the holiday pause but remain on alert.
Ukraine Favors Longer Truce
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has so far rejected a three-day halt, insisting any ceasefire should run for at least 30 days, a proposal that Putin says requires further negotiation.
Retaliation Clause Remains
Asked how Russia would react if Kyiv did not reciprocate, Peskov warned: “There will be a ceasefire, but in the event that there is no reciprocity on the part of the Kyiv regime and attempts to strike our positions or our facilities continue, then an appropriate response will be given immediately.”
No Ukrainian Commitment Yet
Peskov noted that, as of now, Ukraine has not signaled willingness to join the short-term truce. Russia maintains its ceasefire plan but underscores that any breach by Ukrainian forces will provoke an immediate counterstrike.
