Ukraine, Russia announces ceasefire for 8 and 9 May. Zelensky proposes it as early as 6

Moscow announced a ceasefire for 8 and 9 May to mark Victory Day, a holiday on which Russia celebrates the victory over Nazi Germany in World War II. In the announcement, the Russian Defence Ministry states that the decision was made by President Vladimir Putin.

"In accordance with the decision of the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation, V.V. Putin, a ceasefire has been declared for 8 and 9 May 2026, on the occasion of the celebration of the victory of the Soviet people in the Great Patriotic War," the ministry reported, as reported by Russian news agencies. "We hope that the Ukrainian side will follow this example," the Russian Defence Ministry added.

The response of the President of Ukraine, Volodymyr Zelensky, was not long in coming and arrived on X: 'To date, no official appeal has been received from Ukraine as to how to cease hostilities, as is claimed on Russian social media. We believe that human life is worth far more than any anniversary 'celebration'. In this regard, we announce a ceasefire starting at midnight on 5-6 May'.

"In the time between now and then, it is realistic to guarantee that silence will take effect. From then on, we will act mutually. It is time for Russian leaders to take concrete actions to end the war, especially considering that the Russian Defence Ministry believes it cannot organise a parade in Moscow without Ukraine's benevolence,' he added.

"Peace cannot wait for 'parades' and 'celebrations'", "6 May will show whether Moscow is serious and what it really wants: peace or military parades". This was written on X by Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha, regarding President Volodymyr Zelensky's "very important and just statement" announcing a ceasefire starting at midnight between 5 and 6 May, without waiting for the 8 and 9 May ceasefire planned by Moscow on the occasion of Victory Day celebrations. "If Moscow is ready to end hostilities, it can do so as early as tomorrow night. Ukraine is ready: at midnight between 5 and 6 May. This is a serious proposal to end the war and move to diplomacy. I call on all our partners, all peace-loving states, all fora of international organisations to support this call for an end to hostilities,' the minister concluded.