Russian President Vladimir Putin has declared an unexpected three-day ceasefire in Ukraine from May 8 to May 10, 2025, coinciding with the 80th anniversary of the Soviet Union's victory over Nazi Germany in World War II. This announcement, made on April 28, 2025, marks the second time in less than two weeks that Putin has called for a pause in hostilities without committing to a longer-term resolution of the ongoing conflict.
The Kremlin stated that military actions would be suspended beginning at midnight on May 8 and lasting until the end of May 10. "All military actions are suspended for this period. Russia believes that the Ukrainian side should follow this example," the statement read. However, it also warned that any violations by Ukraine would be met with an "adequate and effective response." This ceasefire is particularly significant as it coincides with lavish celebrations planned in Moscow, where Putin will host international leaders, including Chinese President Xi Jinping, on May 9.
While Putin's ceasefire announcement may appear as a gesture towards peace, U.S. President Donald Trump expressed dissatisfaction with the temporary nature of the truce. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stated that Trump is seeking a permanent ceasefire in Ukraine, emphasizing that he finds Putin's three-day pause unsatisfactory. "He is increasingly frustrated with leaders of both countries. He wants to see a permanent ceasefire. I understand Vladimir Putin, this morning, offered a temporary ceasefire. The president has made it clear he wants to see a permanent ceasefire first to stop the killing, stop the bloodshed," Leavitt told reporters.
Trump's call for a halt to hostilities came just a day before Putin's announcement. The U.S. president had urged both Russia and Ukraine to "stop the shooting" and work towards a deal to end the war. In recent days, Trump has been increasingly critical of Moscow, accusing it of slow-walking the U.S. administration’s efforts to reach a peaceful settlement. This frustration stems from the Kremlin's recent history of ceasefire announcements, including a short-lived 30-hour ceasefire declared over Easter 2025, which was poorly adhered to.
In March 2025, Ukraine had agreed to a U.S.-backed unconditional 30-day ceasefire, a proposal that Putin declined at the time. The Kremlin has since attached conditions to any ceasefire, including the lifting of sanctions, which Ukraine has refused to accept. Moreover, the Kremlin reiterated its readiness for peace talks aimed at addressing the "root causes of the Ukrainian crisis," a phrase that has been interpreted as a reference to Russia's desire to integrate Ukraine with its sphere of influence and counter Western military presence in Eastern Europe.
Despite the ongoing tensions, the U.S. has proposed a ceasefire plan that could see Washington recognize Russia’s control over Crimea, a territory Russian forces invaded in 2014. This proposal has raised eyebrows, as it suggests a significant shift in U.S. policy towards Russia and its territorial ambitions.
With the backdrop of the upcoming Victory Day celebrations, the international community is watching closely to see how both Russia and Ukraine respond to this latest ceasefire offer. Analysts suggest that while the ceasefire may provide a temporary respite from violence, it does little to resolve the underlying issues that have fueled the conflict since 2014. The Kremlin's insistence on conditions for peace, coupled with Trump's demand for a more permanent solution, highlights the complexities of the situation.
As the world approaches May 9, the significance of the ceasefire and the potential for renewed conflict loom large. The situation remains fluid, with both sides seemingly entrenched in their positions. While Putin's announcement may serve as a moment of pause, the path to lasting peace appears fraught with challenges.
In the days leading up to the ceasefire, the rhetoric from both sides has been heated. Ukraine's military has been on high alert, prepared for any potential violations of the ceasefire agreement. Meanwhile, the U.S. has continued to express its support for Ukraine, emphasizing the need for a diplomatic resolution that respects Ukraine's sovereignty.
As the ceasefire period approaches, the question remains: will this temporary halt in fighting lead to meaningful discussions, or will it simply be another fleeting moment in a protracted conflict? The coming days will be crucial in determining the future of Ukraine and its relations with both Russia and the West.