Asger Risom
Move framed as “humanitarian” gesture amid skepticism from Kyiv
Russian President Vladimir Putin has announced a temporary three-day ceasefire in Ukraine, set to begin at midnight on May 8 and last until midnight on May 11, marking the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II.
The Kremlin described the move as a “humanitarian” gesture, according to Digi24.
Kremlin Extends Call for Negotiations
Alongside the announcement, the Kremlin reiterated that Russia is “ready for peace negotiations without preconditions” and called on Ukraine to also observe the ceasefire.
Moscow warned, however, that Russian forces would “respond adequately and effectively” to any violations by Ukraine.
The ceasefire proposal comes amid continued hostilities, with Ukraine previously accusing Russia of violating a similar Easter truce earlier this year, citing thousands of breaches.
Kyiv’s Cautious Response
Ukrainian officials have so far dismissed such overtures as strategic ploys rather than genuine attempts at peace, accusing Russia of using ceasefires to regroup militarily.
Ukraine continues to demand a full and unconditional ceasefire as a prerequisite for meaningful negotiations.
The temporary armistice announcement adds another layer of complexity to the diplomatic dynamics as international mediators seek a path to end the more than three-year-old war.