Did Putin's 72-hour Victory Day ceasefire really come into effect?
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Synopsis
As the world watches, Russia has implemented a 72-hour ceasefire for Victory Day, but tensions linger. What does this mean for ongoing conflicts, and how will Ukraine respond? Dive into the implications of this historic moment as foreign leaders prepare to attend the parade in Moscow.
Key Takeaways
- Ceasefire Duration: A 72-hour ceasefire has been declared.
- Ukrainian Response: Ukraine has rejected the ceasefire proposal.
- Foreign Attendance: 29 foreign leaders will be present at the Victory Parade.
- Military Readiness: Russia warns of retaliation if ceasefire is violated.
- Humanitarian Reasons: The ceasefire was declared for humanitarian considerations during Victory Day.
Moscow, May 8 (NationPress) Russia has halted military operations following the ceasefire for Victory Day declared by President Vladimir Putin, which began on Thursday.
Putin proclaimed the 72-hour ceasefire on April 28, as part of its ongoing 'Special Military Operation' in Ukraine, in honor of the Victory Day festivities.
Kremlin Spokesman Dmitry Peskov remarked that Russia's stance on the May ceasefire is well-known and no new directives have been issued regarding it.
In the meantime, Ukrainian forces launched a significant drone assault on Russian cities in the early hours of Wednesday. However, Russian air defense successfully thwarted the attack, according to state-run news agency TASS.
Moscow's mayor, Sergey Sobyanin, reported that nine drones were intercepted near the capital.
Earlier this week, Peskov stated that Russia would halt hostilities during the Victory Day ceasefire but would respond adequately if Ukraine were to attack Russian positions or assets.
"There will be no hostilities. However, if the Kyiv regime does not reciprocate and continues to assault our positions or facilities, we will respond," he conveyed to reporters.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky previously dismissed the ceasefire proposal, insisting on a more extended pause in hostilities on his terms and threatening Victory Day celebrations, as reported by TASS.
Last week, Russian Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova stated that Zelensky's refusal of a truce during the 80th anniversary of Victory constitutes direct threats to foreign leaders attending the upcoming parade in Moscow.
Importantly, 29 foreign leaders are expected to be present at the Victory Parade on May 9.
"By the decree of the President of the Russian Federation, Supreme Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation V.V. Putin, for humanitarian reasons, during the 80th anniversary of Victory, from midnight on May 7-8 until midnight on May 10-11, the Russian side declares a ceasefire. All military operations are halted for this period," the Kremlin stated while announcing the ceasefire.
"Russia believes that the Ukrainian side should emulate this example. Should there be any violations of the ceasefire by Ukraine, the Russian Armed Forces will deliver an appropriate and effective response. The Russian side reaffirms its readiness for peace negotiations without preconditions, aimed at addressing the root causes of the Ukrainian crisis and fostering constructive engagement with international partners," the statement concluded.
Point of View
Our commitment is to present an unbiased view of critical global events. The recent ceasefire declaration by Russia highlights the complex dynamics at play in the ongoing conflict. While the ceasefire aims to commemorate Victory Day, the realities on the ground remain fraught with tension. Our role is to inform and clarify these developments, ensuring our audience remains aware of the evolving geopolitical landscape.
NationPress
19/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the reason behind the ceasefire?
The ceasefire was declared by President Putin in honor of the Victory Day celebrations, allowing for a brief pause in hostilities.
How long will the ceasefire last?
The ceasefire is set for 72 hours, from midnight on May 7-8 until midnight on May 10-11.
What happens if Ukraine violates the ceasefire?
Russia has stated that it will respond adequately to any ceasefire violations by Ukraine.
Are any foreign leaders attending the Victory Parade?
Yes, 29 foreign leaders are expected to attend the Victory Parade on May 9.
Has Ukraine agreed to the ceasefire?
Ukrainian President Zelensky has rejected the ceasefire proposal, demanding a longer pause on his terms.
