The Kremlin has confirmed that Russia will proceed with a temporary ceasefire in Ukraine from May 8 to May 10, marking the 80th anniversary of the Soviet Union’s victory over Nazi Germany. However, officials stress that any aggression from Ukrainian forces will trigger an immediate and strong military response.
This announcement follows President Vladimir Putin’s directive issued on April 28, aiming to honor historic World War II commemorations. The ceasefire is expected to coincide with Victory Day celebrations in Moscow on May 9, where international dignitaries—including Chinese President Xi Jinping—will join Putin on Red Square.
Despite the gesture, Ukraine has not agreed to the proposal. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has made it clear that he would only consider a ceasefire lasting no less than 30 days, labeling any shorter pause in hostilities as insufficient to achieve meaningful peace.
During a press briefing on Tuesday, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov reaffirmed Russia’s commitment to the temporary ceasefire. “President Putin’s ceasefire order is active, and instructions have already been issued to the military,” said Peskov. “But if the Kyiv regime refuses to reciprocate and continues offensive operations, our response will be immediate.”
The Kremlin is presenting the ceasefire as a goodwill initiative, allowing for national reflection and international diplomacy during a symbolic moment in Russian history. Still, the lack of mutual agreement leaves the situation highly volatile. Ukrainian forces have not yet indicated any willingness to abide by the ceasefire, which raises concerns over potential flare-ups during the truce window.
Analysts warn that without reciprocal trust or enforcement mechanisms, temporary ceasefires like this often fail to produce lasting calm. The conflicting positions underscore the continued deep divisions between Moscow and Kyiv, even as the war enters another year of devastating conflict.
With no confirmation from Ukraine and the Kremlin vowing to retaliate against any attacks, the coming days are expected to test the limits of diplomatic outreach in one of Europe’s most entrenched and dangerous military standoffs.
