Putin Declares 3-Day Ceasefire for Victory Day... Announced After US Warning

Ceasefire for Humanitarian Reasons from May 8-10

Ukraine Demands '30-Day Ceasefire'

Russian President Vladimir Putin has declared a temporary ceasefire for three days from May 8 to 10 (local time). The ceasefire is justified on humanitarian grounds to mark the 80th anniversary of the victory in World War II (Victory Day).

The Kremlin announced in a Telegram statement on the 28th that "President Putin, in his capacity as Supreme Commander, has ordered a ceasefire to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the victory." The specific ceasefire time is from 0:00 on May 8 to midnight on the 10th, totaling 72 hours. Russia observes May 9 as a national holiday to commemorate the victory in World War II.

The Kremlin warned that "all military actions are prohibited during this period," but added that "if Ukraine violates this, the Russian military will respond appropriately and effectively." It also emphasized that "Russia is prepared for peace talks without preconditions and seeks constructive cooperation with the international community."

This Victory Day ceasefire was announced two days after U.S. President Donald Trump criticized Russia, saying, "Putin does not seem willing to stop the war." President Trump warned of a second round of sanctions against Russia on the 26th (local time).

President Putin had previously declared a unilateral ceasefire for 30 hours during Easter (19th), but Russia and Ukraine accused each other of violating the ceasefire. The Russian Ministry of Defense claimed that the Ukrainian military committed about 4,900 ceasefire violations during the Easter period.

Ukraine is opposing Russia's 'short-term ceasefire.' Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha stated, "If Russia truly wants peace, it should ceasefire for at least 30 days." The United States and Ukraine demanded a 30-day ceasefire, but Russia has not responded and continues to declare short temporary ceasefires.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov reiterated in a briefing that "the special military operation will continue," but added that "President Putin is ready to engage in peace negotiations with Ukraine without preconditions." However, he claimed that "Ukraine is blocking the initiation of dialogue by legally prohibiting negotiations with Russia."

Reporter Sohyun Lee y2eonlee@hankyung.com