Russian President Vladimir Putin has announced a temporary three-day ceasefire in Ukraine from May 8th to May 10th. The reason, according to the Kremlin, is “humanitarian” — to allow some relief during the ongoing conflict.
Russia hopes that Ukraine will also agree to the ceasefire. However, Moscow warned that if Ukraine breaks the truce, Russian forces will respond quickly and strongly.
"Russia expects Ukraine to follow this peaceful step. But if Ukraine breaks the truce, we will respond properly," said the Kremlin in a statement.
The ceasefire period includes May 9th, which is celebrated in Russia as Victory Day — a major holiday marking the end of World War II.
This announcement came shortly after U.S. President Donald Trump criticized recent Russian attacks on Kyiv. On his social media account, Trump wrote, “I am not happy with the Russian strikes on KYIV. Not necessary, and very bad timing. Vladimir, STOP! 5000 soldiers a week are dying.”
Some experts believe that Putin is trying to improve his image after Trump said he was “very disappointed” with the continued Russian bombings of civilian areas. Trump also claimed that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky might be open to giving up Crimea in exchange for peace — a statement that has sparked further debate.
North Korea Confirms Support
In another major development, North Korea has openly admitted that its troops are helping Russia in the war against Ukraine. North Korean leader Kim Jong Un said their forces are there to “destroy the Ukrainian neo-Nazi occupiers and free the Kursk area.”
Previous Ceasefire Failed
This is not the first time Russia has declared a pause in fighting. In April 2025, a one-sided Easter ceasefire was announced by Putin. It lasted only 30 hours, and fighting continued during that time, making Ukraine doubt Russia's promises.
This time, the planned truce is longer and has been announced in advance.
However, Ukrainian officials said that if Russia truly wants peace, it should agree to a full 30-day ceasefire instead of just three days. The White House also commented on the news.
U.S. Wants Long-Term Peace
White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said on Monday, “The president wants to see a permanent ceasefire to stop the bloodshed. He knows both leaders need to sit down and find a peaceful solution. While he is hopeful, he is also being realistic.”
Whether this short truce will bring any real peace is still uncertain, as both sides continue to hold strong positions.
