Kremlin Seeks Ukraine's Response on Proposed Three-Day Ceasefire

The Kremlin has called for a definitive response from Ukraine to President Vladimir Putin's offer of a three-day ceasefire to coincide with World War II victory commemorations, with the proposed truce running from May 8 to May 10. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov described the offer as a test of Kyiv’s willingness to pursue a peaceful settlement, while Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has dismissed the short-term ceasefire, instead insisting on a minimum 30-day truce. Putin’s ceasefire proposal is timed to align with the 80th anniversary celebrations marking the Soviet victory in World War II, during which international leaders, including China’s Xi Jinping, are expected to attend events in Moscow. Zelensky has characterized the Russian offer as a theatrical gesture meant to improve Russia's international image rather than a genuine step towards peace. Previous Russian ceasefire proposals, such as the one over the Easter holiday, were reportedly violated by Moscow according to Ukrainian officials. Tensions remain high, as the U.S. continues to support a longer ceasefire and prepares additional sanctions targeting key Russian sectors.