Russian President Vladimir Putin has declared a temporary ceasefire in Ukraine, the Kremlin announced on Monday.

The pause in fighting is set to begin on the morning of 8 May and will continue through 11 May, aligning with Russia’s annual Victory Day commemorations marking the end of World War Two.

In a statement, the Kremlin said the decision was made "on humanitarian grounds," and urged Ukraine to observe the ceasefire as well.

"Russia expects the Ukrainian side to reciprocate," the statement read, warning that any breaches by Ukrainian forces would be met with an "adequate and effective response" from Russian troops.

The Kremlin also reiterated its willingness to engage in unconditional peace talks aimed at addressing the underlying causes of the conflict, expressing openness to "constructive cooperation with international partners."

Kyiv has not yet issued an official response to the announcement.

Earlier this year, Russia proposed a similar 30-hour truce over the Easter period. Although fighting reportedly eased temporarily, both Moscow and Kyiv accused each other of committing numerous violations during that time.

The ceasefire declaration comes amid what the United States has described as a "very critical" moment in efforts to advance Russia-Ukraine peace negotiations. Washington has been facilitating discussions but has warned it may withdraw its involvement if tangible progress is not achieved.

Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine on 24 February 2022 and currently controls roughly 20% of Ukraine’s territory, including Crimea, which Moscow annexed in 2014.

Since the conflict began, hundreds of thousands of people — mostly soldiers — have been killed or wounded.

Source: BBC

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