Surprising Move by Putin: Will Ukraine Follow the 72-Hour Truce?”
Moscow: Amid ongoing conflict, Russia has declared a 72-hour ceasefire in Ukraine to coincide with its Victory Day celebrations. The ceasefire will begin at midnight between May 7-8 and end at midnight between May 10-11, according to an official statement from the Kremlin.
Ceasefire Linked to Historic Victory Day
President Vladimir Putin announced the pause in military operations to mark the 80th anniversary of the Soviet Union’s victory over Nazi Germany in World War II. Victory Day, celebrated annually on May 9, is one of Russia’s most important national events, with a major military parade held in Moscow. This year’s celebration holds special significance as it marks eight decades since the end of the war in Europe.
Russia Warns of Response if Ukraine Violates Truce
The Kremlin emphasized that Ukraine is expected to respect the ceasefire. Should Ukraine violate it, Russian forces have warned of an “adequate and effective” response. Meanwhile, Russia reiterated its readiness for peace talks without preconditions. Separately, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov and U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio discussed the Ukraine crisis over a phone call, emphasizing the need to strengthen conditions for long-term peace.
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