By Abiola Olawale
Russian President Vladimir Putin has announced a 72-hour ceasefire in Ukraine, effective from midnight on May 7-8 to midnight on May 10-11, 2025.
In a statement issued by the Russian Presidency, it was declared that the ceasefire is to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the Soviet Union’s victory in World War II.
According to the statement, the truce is a “humanitarian” gesture tied to Russia’s Victory Day celebrations on May 9, urging Ukraine to reciprocate.
The statement reads in part: “The Russian side is declaring a ceasefire during the 80th anniversary of Victory Day, from midnight on May 7-8 to midnight on May 10-11. All combat operations will be suspended during this period.
“Russia believes that the Ukrainian side should follow this example. In the event of violations of the truce by the Ukrainian side, the Russian armed forces will give an adequate and effective response.”
This comes after United States President Donald Trump had expressed scepticism about Putin’s motives regarding the war with Ukraine.
Trump had suggested that Putin may be “just tapping me along” in their interactions.
In a statement posted on Truth Social, Trump indicated a need to rethink his strategy, asserting that Putin must now be “dealt with differently.”
He said: “There was no reason for Putin to be shooting missiles into civilian areas, cities and towns, over the last few days.
“It makes me think that maybe he doesn’t want to stop the war, he’s just tapping me along, and has to be dealt with differently, through ‘Banking’ or ‘Secondary Sanctions?’ Too many people are dying!!!”
Trump’s statement also comes after Russia conducted a missile strike in Kyiv that killed 12 people and wounded 87 on Wednesday.
