Russian President Vladimir Putin declared a unilateral three-day ceasefire in Ukraine from May 8 to 10 to mark the 80th anniversary of Victory Day commemorating the Soviet Union's WWII triumph over Nazi Germany. The Kremlin framed the pause in hostilities as a humanitarian gesture tied to the holiday.
However, German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius expressed doubt about the ceasefire's sincerity and effectiveness, citing past ceasefire attempts-such as the Easter truce-that were quickly violated by both sides. He emphasized that such declarations often amount to little on the ground and stressed reliance on continued U.S. support for Ukraine’s defense, highlighting the broader implications for European security.
Ukraine rejected the limited ceasefire window, with Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha and President Volodymyr Zelenskyy calling for an immediate and unconditional 30-day ceasefire instead. They criticized the timing as a symbolic gesture for Russia’s parade rather than a genuine effort to halt fighting. Ukrainian military voices were even more blunt, describing the ceasefire as "pure insanity" and accusing Russia of using such pauses to regroup and gain tactical advantage.
Meanwhile, hostilities continue: a Russian drone strike overnight killed a 12-year-old girl and injured her parents in central Ukraine, while both sides exchanged drone attacks across multiple regions. The Ukrainian Air Force reported shooting down dozens of Russian drones, though many still caused damage.
In summary, Putin’s three-day Victory Day ceasefire is met with widespread skepticism and rejection by Ukraine and its allies, who call for a meaningful, lasting ceasefire rather than a short, symbolic pause amid ongoing violence and deep mistrust.