Russian President Vladimir Putin announced a so-called "humanitarian" truce in the war against Ukraine to mark the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II in Europe, the Kremlin said on April 28.
The ceasefire will be in effect from midnight on May 8 until midnight on May 11, according to the Kremlin's statement. "During this period, all military actions will cease. Russia believes that the Ukrainian side should follow this example," the statement read.
The announcement comes as Moscow continues to reject Kyiv's demand for a full and unconditional ceasefire as the first step toward a broader peace deal.
U.S. President Donald Trump has intensified his push for a ceasefire in Ukraine, urging Putin to "sit down and sign a deal." U.S. officials have previously threatened to walk away from the peace efforts unless progress is reached soon.
The Kremlin claimed that Russia remains ready for "peace negotiations with Ukraine without preconditions" and expressed willingness for "constructive engagement" with international partners.
Russia celebrates the end of World War II in Europe on May 9, marking the occasion with pompous military parades. Most other European nations, including Ukraine, mark May 8 as Victory in Europe Day.
Andrii Kovalenko, an official at Ukraine's National Security and Defense Council, questioned why Moscow does not instead declare a "full and comprehensive ceasefire."
"Anything that is not a comprehensive ceasefire is Russian manipulation for informational and military purposes, an attempt to hide its intent to continue the war," Kovalenko said after Putin's announcement.
