Russia Declares 72-Hour Ceasefire in Ukraine for Victory Day

KYIV, Ukraine — Russia has announced a 72-hour unilateral ceasefire in Ukraine, starting from midnight May 8 until midnight May 10. President Vladimir Putin proclaimed this temporary truce on Monday, coinciding with the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II, or as Russia calls it, the Great Patriotic War.

The Kremlin stated that the ceasefire is to be observed on humanitarian grounds for the Victory Day celebrations on May 9. Putin called on Kyiv to also agree to the ceasefire. However, the Kremlin warned that if Ukrainian forces violate this truce, Russian military would respond with appropriate measures.

This announcement comes amid increasing pressure from the United States for Russia to agree to a permanent ceasefire in the ongoing conflict. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio mentioned that Washington is evaluating its involvement in the peace process as tensions continue to rise.

In the lead-up to the ceasefire, both sides had engaged in long-range strikes. The Russian Defense Ministry reported downing 119 Ukrainian drones overnight, primarily in the Bryansk area. Meanwhile, air raid sirens were activated across Ukraine on Monday morning, although there were no immediate reports of damages.

As peace negotiations remain fraught with challenges, conflicting claims between Moscow and Kyiv about the situation complicate the path to a resolution. Trump‘s administration has been engaged in discussions, but skepticism surrounds both leaders’ willingness to compromise.

Despite the prevailing optimism surrounding the ceasefire, the conflict which ignited after Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022 continues to pose a dire humanitarian crisis for both nations. The outcome of this temporary truce is uncertain as the clock ticks on potential peace efforts.