Putin Declares 72-Hour Ceasefire in Ukraine, Calls for Peace Talks

Russian President Vladimir Putin declared a unilateral 72-hour ceasefire in the special military operation zone, effective from May 8 to May 10, coinciding with the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Great Patriotic War. The Kremlin's statement emphasized that this decision was made out of humanitarian considerations, under the command of the Supreme Commander-in-Chief of the Russian Armed Forces, Putin. The ceasefire is set to begin at 00:00 on May 8 and end at 00:00 on May 11, during which all military operations will be suspended.

Russia has called on Ukraine to make reciprocal arrangements, warning that any violation of the ceasefire by Ukraine would be met with immediate and adequate measures from the Russian military. Additionally, Russia reiterated its willingness to engage in unconditional peace talks to eliminate the root causes of the Ukrainian crisis and to engage in constructive interaction with international partners.

Russian President's spokesperson, Peskov, highlighted that the ceasefire demonstrates Putin's goodwill and underscores Russia's readiness to resolve the conflict peacefully. However, Peskov noted that Ukraine has not shown any signs of being prepared for negotiations, as they have not lifted the ban on talks with Russia. Previously, Putin had announced a ceasefire during Easter, from April 19 at 6 PM to April 20 at midnight. Despite multiple violations by Ukraine, the overall level of military activity across the frontline significantly decreased.

During a meeting with U.S. envoy Witkov, Putin reiterated Moscow's readiness to engage in unconditional peace talks with Kyiv. This announcement comes as the Trump administration increased pressure on both Russia and Ukraine to agree on a deal to end the war. The U.S. Secretary of State warned that if no progress is seen, the U.S. might abandon its peace efforts.

In response to Russia's ceasefire announcement, Ukrainian officials expressed skepticism, urging Putin to immediately accept the U.S.'s proposal for a longer ceasefire. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba stated, "If Russia is serious about peace, it should stop fighting immediately, not wait until May 8." He also mentioned that Ukraine is ready to support a durable, credible, and comprehensive ceasefire lasting at least 30 days. Kuleba added that Ukrainian forces have stabilized the frontline and reclaimed parts of Pokrovsk and other areas, with Russia failing to achieve any strategic victories. Over the past three years, Ukraine's defense industrial capacity has increased sixfold, meeting 40% of the military's weapon needs.

The White House spokesperson, Levitt, welcomed Putin's willingness to pause the conflict but emphasized the need for a complete ceasefire in Ukraine. The U.S. President expressed growing frustration with the leaders of both countries, urging them to negotiate and find a way out of the crisis. Meanwhile, reports indicate that the U.S. President has pledged not to withdraw from the Ukrainian peace process, warning that if no progress is made in negotiations, the U.S. might abandon its efforts to broker a deal.