Will Russia Respond If Ukraine Breaches the Victory Day Ceasefire?
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Synopsis
As tensions escalate, Russia declares a ceasefire during Victory Day but warns of retaliation if Ukraine continues to attack. What does this mean for the ongoing conflict? Explore the implications of this announcement and the responses from both sides.
Key Takeaways
- Ceasefire duration: 72 hours from May 7-8 to May 10-11.
- Russia's warning: Retaliation if Ukraine attacks during ceasefire.
- Putin's initiative: Aimed at honoring Victory Day celebrations.
- Ukraine's response: Rejected the ceasefire proposal, seeking longer terms.
- International implications: Potential threats to foreign leaders attending the parade.
Moscow, May 6 (NationPress) Russia will halt military actions during the Victory Day ceasefire that was declared by President Vladimir Putin. However, should Ukraine strike at its forces or facilities, there will be a proportional response, stated Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov on Tuesday.
“There will be no military engagements. Yet, if the Kyiv regime fails to reciprocate and continues its assaults on our positions or facilities, we will respond accordingly,” Peskov informed reporters in Moscow.
Putin had previously announced a 72-hour ceasefire on April 28 in relation to the ongoing 'Special Military Operation' in Ukraine to honor the Victory Day festivities from May 8 to 11.
“President Putin's call for a temporary ceasefire during the holiday period remains valid, with relevant orders issued by the Commander-in-Chief,” Peskov emphasized.
“Regrettably, we have yet to receive any statement from Kyiv’s officials or the regime's leader indicating their willingness to adhere to the Victory Day ceasefire,” he added during the press conference.
Peskov also remarked that the attacks launched by the Armed Forces of Ukraine on Russian territory indicate Kyiv's intention to persist with the conflict.
“The Kyiv regime continues to showcase its stance, which is clearly aimed at prolonging the conflict,” he stated further.
In a prior statement, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky dismissed the ceasefire offer, insisting on a more extended pause in hostilities on his own terms and issuing threats regarding the Victory Day celebrations in Moscow, according to Russian state-run news agency TASS.
Recently, Maria Zakharova, spokesperson for the Russian Foreign Ministry, indicated that Zelensky's refusal of a truce during the 80th anniversary of Victory poses direct threats to foreign leaders attending the parade in Moscow.
“By the decision of the President of the Russian Federation and Supreme Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation, V V Putin, for humanitarian reasons, a ceasefire is declared from midnight on May 7-8 until midnight on May 10-11, with all military operations suspended during this period,” the Kremlin announced.
“Russia expects the Ukrainian side to follow this lead. Should Ukraine violate the ceasefire, the Russian Armed Forces will respond effectively. The Russian side reiterates its readiness for unconditional peace talks aimed at addressing the underlying issues of the Ukrainian crisis and fostering constructive engagement with international partners,” the statement concluded.
Point of View
Our stance remains firmly supportive of reporting on international conflicts with accuracy and fairness. The situation between Russia and Ukraine remains fluid, and understanding both sides is essential for fostering peace. We strive to provide our audience with the most reliable information to inform their perspectives.
NationPress
21/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the duration of the ceasefire?
The ceasefire is set to last for 72 hours, from midnight on May 7-8 until midnight on May 10-11.
What will Russia do if Ukraine violates the ceasefire?
Russia has stated it will respond adequately if Ukraine attacks its positions or facilities during the ceasefire.
Why did Putin announce a ceasefire?
The ceasefire was announced to honor the Victory Day celebrations, which occur from May 8 to 11.
Has Ukraine accepted the ceasefire proposal?
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky rejected the ceasefire, demanding a longer pause on his terms.
What are the implications of this ceasefire?
The ceasefire could provide a temporary pause in hostilities, but continued attacks may lead to further escalation.
