Putin Declares Surprise Ukraine Ceasefire for May 8–10
Russian President Vladimir Putin has announced a surprise three-day ceasefire in Ukraine from May 8 to 10, coinciding with Russia’s Victory Day celebrations, the Kremlin said Monday.
Moscow urged Kyiv to reciprocate and warned that any violations would be met with “adequate and effective” responses. A similar Easter truce was marred by repeated accusations of breaches from both sides.
Putin’s ceasefire order comes amid renewed international pressure for a broader peace effort. Washington and European leaders remain skeptical, with former U.S. President Donald Trump questioning Putin’s intentions after recent civilian missile strikes in Ukraine.
While Russia signaled readiness for direct talks, it insists on Ukraine recognizing its claims over Crimea and four other occupied regions — a demand Kyiv and its allies reject as illegal land grabs.
Meanwhile, Russia claimed fresh battlefield gains, capturing Ukraine’s village of Kamianka and securing full control of its Kursk region with support from North Korean troops.
