Putin announces temporary ceasefire for May 9 commemoration

Russian President Vladimir Putin has declared a ceasefire from 00:00 on May 8 to 00:00 on May 11, in observance of the 80th anniversary of Victory Day. The move, announced on the Kremlin’s website, was described as being based on “humanitarian considerations.”

According to the statement, all hostilities will be halted during this period. The Kremlin has called on Ukrainian authorities to “respect the ceasefire”, with a stern warning that any violations will be met with an “adequate and effective response” by Russian forces.

The announcement also reiterated Russia’s “willingness” to engage in peace talks “without preconditions”.

The ceasefire coincides with the May 9 commemoration of Victory Day, which marks the Soviet Union’s triumph over Nazi Germany in World War II.