Russian President Vladimir Putin has declared a three-day ceasefire in Ukraine, set to take place from May 8 to May 10, citing “humanitarian reasons.” The Kremlin stated it expects Ukraine to honor the truce but warned that any violations would be met with a “swift and appropriate” response from Russian forces.
“Russia expects the Ukrainian side to reciprocate. Should Ukraine breach the ceasefire, the Russian armed forces will deliver an adequate and effective response,” the Kremlin said.
Announcement comes days after Donald Trump’s criticized Russian attacks on Kyiv
The announcement comes just days after U.S. President Donald Trump criticized Russia’s strikes on Kyiv via social media, calling them “unnecessary” and “poorly timed,” and urging Putin to “STOP,” while highlighting that 5,000 soldiers were dying each week.
The ceasefire coincides with Russia’s Victory Day celebrations on May 9, commemorating the end of World War II.
Moscow’s move is widely seen as an attempt to regain favor with Trump, who recently voiced “deep disappointment” over Russia’s continued attacks on Ukrainian civilian areas. Trump also mentioned that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky was willing to cede Crimea as part of a potential peace agreement with Russia.
North Korea admits that its troops have been aiding Russia
Meanwhile, North Korea confirmed for the first time that its troops have been aiding Russia’s war effort in Ukraine. North Korean leader Kim Jong Un stated that their deployment was aimed at “annihilating and eradicating the Ukrainian neo-Nazi occupiers” and “liberating the Kursk region.”
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Russia had previously declared a short ceasefire for Easter
This is not Russia’s first ceasefire declaration. In April 2025, Putin announced a unilateral Easter truce that lasted only 30 hours amid ongoing clashes, which left Ukraine skeptical of Moscow’s intentions.
However, the newly announced May ceasefire provides more advance notice and a longer duration.
Ukraine response on Putin’s ceasefire announcement
Ukraine responded by saying that if Russia “truly seeks peace,” it should have declared an immediate 30-day ceasefire. The White House echoed similar sentiments, pushing for a permanent end to the conflict.
Speaking to reporters on Monday, White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said, “The president remains increasingly frustrated with the leadership of both countries. He wants to see a permanent ceasefire to halt the bloodshed. While President Trump remains hopeful a deal can be struck, he is also realistic and understands that both sides need to come to the negotiating table.”
