Moscow: Russian President Vladimir Putin on Monday declared a unilateral ceasefire in Ukraine from May 8 to May 10, but Ukraine and the United States reacted cautiously.
The Russian mini-truce would coincide with the 80th anniversary of victory over Nazi Germany in World War II.
“During this period, all hostilities will cease,” a Kremlin statement said, adding Putin made the decision on “humanitarian grounds.” The statement added: “Russia believes that the Ukrainian side should follow this example.” Ukraine responded with a counteroffer of an immediate and longer-lasting truce.
“If Russia truly wants peace, it must cease fire immediately,” Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha wrote on X. Ukraine is ready to support a permanent, stable and comprehensive ceasefire, he said, but any initial truce should last at least 30 days and not just cover the period of Moscow’s military parade, Sybiha added.
US President Donald Trump’s team expressed dissatisfaction with Moscow’s offer. White House spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt stated that the US president had made it clear that he wanted to see a permanent ceasefire.
Kremlin leader Putin had previously declared a 30-hour ceasefire over the Christian festival of Easter, which Ukraine also joined. (DPA)
