Russia announces a 72-hour ceasefire in Ukraine to mark WWII Victory Day celebrations, while simultaneously warning of immediate retaliation if Ukrainian forces continue strikes during this period.
At a Glance
- The Kremlin confirmed a temporary ceasefire in Ukraine from May 8 to May 10
- The pause coincides with the 80th anniversary of Soviet victory over Nazi Germany
- Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy rejected the proposal, calling instead for a minimum 30-day ceasefire
- Russian forces remain on high alert with Kremlin spokesman warning of immediate counterstrike if provoked
- International leaders including China’s Xi Jinping are expected to attend Victory Day celebrations in Moscow
Russia’s Limited Ceasefire Declaration
The Kremlin has announced a temporary 72-hour ceasefire in Ukraine, scheduled to run from May 8 through May 10. This brief pause in hostilities comes as Russia prepares to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the Soviet Union’s victory over Nazi Germany in World War II. The celebration, traditionally held with great ceremony on May 9, will feature a military parade in Moscow’s Red Square attended by several world leaders, including Chinese President Xi Jinping and other international dignitaries.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov confirmed that Russian forces have been ordered to observe the ceasefire during this period but emphasized they will maintain readiness to respond to any provocations. The timing of this announcement appears strategically aligned with Russia’s important national holiday, allowing for uninterrupted Victory Day celebrations while projecting an image of measured restraint on the international stage.
Ukraine’s Rejection and Counterproposal
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy has firmly rejected Russia’s three-day ceasefire proposal. Instead, Zelenskiy has countered with a demand for a more substantial pause in fighting, proposing a minimum duration of 30 days. This rejection highlights the deep mistrust between the warring nations and suggests Ukraine views the brief ceasefire as potentially self-serving for Russia rather than a genuine step toward peace negotiations.
“There will be a ceasefire, but in the event that there is no reciprocity on the part of the Kyiv regime and attempts to strike our positions or our facilities continue, then an appropriate response will be given immediately.” – Dmitry Peskov.
Ukrainian authorities have shown no indication of accepting even a temporary halt in military operations. This stance appears consistent with Ukraine’s overall strategy of maintaining pressure on Russian forces, particularly as Western military aid continues to bolster Ukrainian capabilities. The absence of any formal agreement means fighting may well continue throughout the proposed ceasefire period.
Threats of Retaliation and Military Readiness
Despite announcing the ceasefire, Russian officials have issued stark warnings about potential retaliation. Peskov explicitly stated that if Ukrainian forces strike Russian positions during the ceasefire period, Moscow will respond with immediate counterattacks. This dual messaging of offering peace while simultaneously threatening force underscores the precarious nature of the announcement and suggests limited confidence in its implementation.
Russian military units along the front lines reportedly remain in a heightened state of readiness throughout the ceasefire period. The Kremlin’s statements emphasize that while offensive operations may pause temporarily, defensive capabilities and counter-strike preparations continue uninterrupted. This posture reflects the ongoing tensions and mistrust that have characterized the conflict since Russia’s full-scale invasion began in February 2022.
International Implications
The timing of this ceasefire announcement carries significant international dimensions. With Victory Day celebrations drawing foreign leaders to Moscow, Russia appears eager to project an image of restraint and responsibility on the global stage. The presence of Chinese President Xi Jinping and other international figures at the May 9 celebrations provides Russia with an opportunity to strengthen diplomatic relationships while presenting itself as open to deescalation.
The brief ceasefire declaration comes amid increasing pressure on both Russia and Ukraine regarding potential peace negotiations. Western nations continue to support Ukraine militarily while simultaneously exploring diplomatic avenues for conflict resolution. However, with Ukraine rejecting this limited ceasefire and Russia maintaining its threatening stance, the announcement appears unlikely to generate momentum toward more comprehensive peace talks.
