Putin declares temporary truce during Victory Day anniversary celebrations
In a surprising move ahead of a major historic anniversary, Russian President Vladimir Putin has declared a temporary ceasefire to mark the 80th anniversary of Victory Day, which commemorates the Soviet Union’s triumph over Nazi Germany in 1945.
The truce will take place from May 8 to May 10, according to an official statement released by the Kremlin on Monday.
Quick Summary:
Putin’s announced ceasefire will run from May 8–10 during Victory Day celebrations, but Ukraine’s President Zelenskyy remains skeptical, calling for an immediate and longer ceasefire.
Why Is There a Ceasefire?
In a post shared through the Kremlin’s official Telegram channel, Russian officials emphasized that the ceasefire is grounded in “humanitarian considerations.” The statement read:
“Based on humanitarian considerations, the Russian side declares a truce during the 80th anniversary of Victory Day. For this period, all hostilities are stopped.”
In short, the aim — at least on paper — is to pause the fighting to honor a day deeply significant to Russia’s national identity.
However, the Kremlin also issued a warning: if Ukrainian forces violate the truce, Russia’s military would deliver an “adequate and effective response.”
How Did Ukraine Respond?
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy didn’t waste time responding — and he’s not buying it.
In a pointed statement on social media, Zelenskyy argued that there’s no need to wait until May 8 to stop fighting. He accused Russia of using the truce announcement as another attempt to manipulate the global community, especially the United States:
“Russia has consistently rejected everything and continues to manipulate the world, trying to deceive the United States.”
Zelenskyy isn’t just skeptical about the timing. He’s calling for something much bigger: a full, unconditional, 30-day ceasefire to create space for serious diplomacy.
In his words:
“The ceasefire should not be just for a few days, only to return to killing afterward.”
Is This a Step Toward Peace — or Just a Pause?
If you’re wondering whether this ceasefire could actually pave the way to peace talks, the picture is complicated.
The Kremlin insisted it is still open to “peace talks without preconditions,” but Zelenskyy pointed out that Russia’s forces have ramped up attacks since Easter, casting doubt on Moscow’s real intentions.
Key Point:
Diplomatic efforts remain fragile — and both sides seem locked in a cycle of mistrust.
Meanwhile, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen met with Zelenskyy over the weekend, reaffirming support for Ukraine and likely strategizing next steps.
What’s Next?
Whether this short-term truce leads to broader peace efforts — or simply offers a moment of pause during Victory Day parades — remains to be seen.
For now, all eyes are on May 8.
Will the guns truly fall silent? Or will the fighting resume with even more intensity afterward?
Stay tuned — because this story is still unfolding.
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