Russia and Ukraine have officially agreed to a three-day ceasefire brokered by the United States, set to take place from May 9 to May 11. President Donald Trump expressed hope for a potential extension of the ceasefire, which also involves the exchange of 1,000 prisoners of war between the two countries.
Both Kyiv and Moscow have accused each other of violating previous ceasefire agreements as Russia prepares to hold a Victory Day parade on May 9 to commemorate the Soviet Union’s victory over Nazi Germany in 1945.
Trump, frustrated by the lack of progress in resolving the conflict, sees the ceasefire as a positive development. The ceasefire entails a cessation of all “kinetic activity” and the exchange of 1,000 prisoners from each side, as outlined by Trump on Truth Social.
President Zelenskyy confirmed the ceasefire arrangement mediated by the U.S., emphasizing the importance of humanitarian issues in the ongoing negotiations. He also humorously stated that Ukraine would not target Russia’s Red Square during its military parade on May 9.
The agreement comes after substantial talks between U.S. and Ukrainian officials in Miami, with further discussions planned as U.S. envoys are scheduled to visit Kyiv in the upcoming months. Kremlin aide Yuri Ushakov, speaking on behalf of President Putin, confirmed Russia’s acceptance of Trump’s initiative following discussions with the U.S. administration.
The conflict between Ukraine and Russia has been ongoing since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Despite previous ceasefire violations, the current agreement represents a potential step towards ending the prolonged and deadly war between the two nations.
Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin reported the interception of Ukrainian drones approaching the Russian capital, while concerns remain about potential disruptions to the Victory Day parade in Moscow. Russia has warned that any interference with the parade could prompt a significant missile strike on Kyiv.
The upcoming Victory Day parade in Moscow, traditionally showcasing Russian military strength, will notably exclude military equipment this year. Analysts suggest that Russia’s caution may stem from fears of Ukrainian drones and long-range missiles posing a threat to the event.
This latest ceasefire agreement offers a glimmer of hope for a resolution to the conflict that has plagued Ukraine and Russia for years, with ongoing efforts aimed at achieving a lasting peace.