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The Kremlin announced on Monday that President Vladimir Putin has mandated a complete halt to hostilities in the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, citing “humanitarian grounds.” This decision coincides with Russia’s Victory Day celebrations, commemorating their triumph over Nazi Germany during World War II.
The ceasefire is scheduled to take effect just after midnight on May 8.
The Kremlin issued a statement urging Ukraine to demonstrate similar commitment, warning that “should the Ukrainian side violate the ceasefire, the Russian armed forces will respond adequately and effectively.”
In response, Ukraine’s Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha dismissed Putin’s declaration, stating, “If Russia genuinely seeks peace, it must cease fire immediately.” He elaborated that Ukraine is prepared for a “lasting, reliable, and complete ceasefire” lasting at least 30 days.
Sybiha questioned the delay, suggesting, “Why not initiate a ceasefire now? If a truce can be established for 30 days, let it be genuine, rather than merely symbolic for a parade.” However, he did not clarify if Ukraine would agree to the proposed truce from Moscow.
This announcement comes in the context of ongoing efforts by the Trump administration to mediate a peace deal in a conflict that has entered its fourth year. Until now, Putin had consistently linked a full unconditional ceasefire to the cessation of Western military support for Ukraine and Kyiv’s ongoing mobilization.
Putin Acknowledges North Korean Support
Before the Kremlin’s announcement, both Ukraine and Russia had exchanged long-range strikes early on Monday. The Russian Defense Ministry reported intercepting 119 Ukrainian drones overnight, with most being shot down over the Bryansk region near Russia’s border.
Sounding alarms across Ukrainian cities, air raid sirens were heard on Monday morning, though there were no immediate reports of injuries or significant damage.
The effectiveness of the Trump administration’s push to end the fighting remains uncertain, affected by conflicting reports from American officials and reservations regarding each side’s willingness to compromise amid deep-seated hostility and mistrust.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio highlighted the significance of the coming week, stating that it is “very critical.” He noted the necessity for the U.S. to decide if it will continue its involvement in mediating the conflict.
In a telephone conversation on Sunday, Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov discussed the conflict with Rubio, as reported by the Russian Foreign Ministry.
Crucial to Ukraine’s defense, U.S. military aid has been instrumental, and further assistance may be jeopardized if the Trump administration decides to disengage from peace negotiations. Over the weekend, Trump expressed skepticism regarding Putin’s commitment to peace, particularly as Russian forces continue to target civilian areas in Ukraine with missiles amid ongoing discussions. Nevertheless, he characterized a potential settlement as being “close.”
WATCH l Kyiv’s mayor alludes to tough concessions for peace:
Kyiv mayor discusses territorial compromises for peace
Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko mentioned to the BBC that Ukraine may need to consider temporary territorial concessions as part of a peace agreement with Russia. He stated, “One scenario involves giving up territory. It may not seem fair, but for lasting peace, perhaps it could be a viable temporary solution.”
Western European leaders have accused the Kremlin of stalling on peace negotiations to allow Russian forces—superior in numbers and momentum—to seize more Ukrainian territory.
The war, which erupted following Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022, has gained significant international ramifications, complicating diplomatic efforts. Putin acknowledged North Korea’s contributions on Monday, thanking the nation for allegedly sending thousands of troops to aid in the conflict and supplying artillery munitions.
Notably, North Korean state media confirmed the nation’s involvement for the first time, with leader Kim Jong-Un hailing the soldiers as “heroes” and symbols of national honor, according to the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA).
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