Putin Orders 3-Day Ukraine Truce for May 8–10 for WWII Victory Day/ Newslooks/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ Russia announced a three-day ceasefire in Ukraine from May 8–10 to commemorate WWII Victory Day. The decision comes amid U.S. efforts to negotiate an end to the prolonged conflict. Doubts linger over Russia’s commitment to peace as hostilities continue.
Russia Declares Ukraine Ceasefire for WWII Victory Day: Quick Looks
- Russia announces three-day ceasefire in Ukraine, May 8–10, for Victory Day.
- Ceasefire declared on humanitarian grounds to mark Nazi Germany’s defeat.
- U.S. and European leaders work to broker a lasting peace deal.
- Washington questions Russia’s sincerity amid ongoing missile attacks.
- Ukraine resists territorial concessions in return for peace.
- Progress reported on U.S.-Ukraine critical minerals agreement.
- International players like North Korea, Iran, and China back Russia.
- U.S. support remains crucial to Ukraine’s war efforts.
Putin Orders 3-Day Ukraine Truce for May 8–10 for WWII Victory Day
Deep Look
Russia Declares Ceasefire in Ukraine for Victory Day
KYIV, Ukraine — Russian President Vladimir Putin has declared a three-day ceasefire in Ukraine, scheduled from May 8 through May 10, to commemorate the anniversary of the defeat of Nazi Germany during World War II. The Kremlin announced the truce would begin at midnight on May 8 (2100 GMT May 7) and end at the close of May 10. Officials cited humanitarian concerns as the motivation behind the ceasefire during the annual Victory Day celebrations on May 9.
Until now, Putin had resisted a full and unconditional ceasefire, tying any halt in fighting to Western arms supplies to Ukraine and the ongoing Ukrainian mobilization.
The announcement followed a night of escalating attacks. Russia’s Defense Ministry reported that its forces intercepted 119 Ukrainian drones, predominantly over the Bryansk border region. In response, air raid alarms were triggered across Ukraine, although no casualties or substantial damage were immediately reported.
U.S. Pushes for Swift Resolution
As ceasefire plans unfold, the Trump administration in the United States faces a crucial decision regarding continued involvement in the peace process. Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized on NBC’s “Meet the Press” that the coming days would be pivotal. He highlighted the necessity for the U.S. to determine whether efforts to mediate the war should persist.
American military aid remains a cornerstone of Ukraine’s defense. However, if the Trump administration withdraws from the negotiations, future support could be jeopardized.
Trump Voices Skepticism
Despite announcing that a potential settlement is “close,” President Trump expressed doubts about Russia’s genuine intentions. He criticized ongoing Russian missile strikes targeting Ukrainian civilians even as peace talks progressed.
European officials accuse Russia of delaying negotiations to capitalize on its current battlefield momentum. They believe the Kremlin’s strategy involves capturing more Ukrainian territory before any deal is finalized.
Over the weekend, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov and Secretary Rubio discussed the situation. According to a statement from the Russian Foreign Ministry, the conversation aimed to “consolidate emerging prerequisites for starting negotiations,” although specifics were scarce.
Ceasefire Conditions and Diplomatic Maneuvering
While Ukraine has accepted a proposed U.S. initiative for an immediate 30-day ceasefire, Russia has attached conditions, complicating efforts for a swift resolution. French officials indicated that leaders from the U.S., Ukraine, and France are coordinating closely to secure a ceasefire that respects Ukraine’s sovereignty and European security interests.
Still, one of the major sticking points is Ukraine’s refusal to cede territory in exchange for peace—a notion Washington has hinted may be necessary to move negotiations forward.
Economic and Strategic Negotiations in Parallel
In parallel with the ceasefire discussions, Ukraine and the United States have made strides toward securing an agreement over Ukraine’s critical minerals sector. Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal confirmed that discussions were progressing, with both sides agreeing that previous American aid would not factor into the terms of the mineral deal.
Shmyhal underscored the importance of adhering to Ukraine’s Constitution, existing legislation, and European Union commitments, stressing that any agreement would require parliamentary ratification.
Russia’s Growing Foreign Support
As the war grinds on, Russia’s international alliances have become increasingly evident. Putin recently thanked North Korea for reportedly sending thousands of troops and providing artillery support. Iran’s contributions of Shahed drones and China’s supply of dual-use technologies that can aid Russia’s weapons production have also bolstered Moscow’s war efforts.
Despite these developments, the United States and European countries remain Ukraine’s most significant backers, offering military aid and diplomatic support throughout the conflict that erupted with Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022.
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