Russia has declared a unilateral ceasefire in its ongoing war with Ukraine, set to run from May 8 to May 9, coinciding with its annual World War II Victory Day commemorations. However, Moscow warned that any violation of the truce could trigger a strong military response.
The announcement was made by the Russian Defence Ministry, which stated that the order came directly from President Vladimir Putin following a recent phone call with former U.S. President Donald Trump.
“In accordance with a decision of the Supreme Commander-in-Chief of the Russian Armed Forces, Vladimir Putin, a ceasefire has been declared from May 8–9, 2026 … We hope that the Ukrainian side will follow suit,” the ministry said.
Despite the declaration, Russia issued a stern warning, saying it would respond forcefully if the ceasefire is disrupted. “If the Kyiv regime attempts to implement its criminal plans to disrupt the celebration of the 81st anniversary of Victory in the Great Patriotic War, the Russian Armed Forces will launch a retaliatory, massive missile strike on the center of Kyiv,” the statement read.
It further cautioned civilians and foreign diplomatic staff in the Ukrainian capital, urging them to evacuate. “We warn the civilian population of Kyiv and employees of foreign diplomatic missions of the need to leave the city promptly,” it added.
In response, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced a separate ceasefire proposal, while criticising Moscow’s approach to the conflict.
“We believe that human life is far more valuable than any anniversary ‘celebration’. In this regard, we are announcing a ceasefire regime starting at 00:00 on the night of May 5–6,” Zelenskyy said. “In the time left until that moment, it is realistic to ensure that silence takes effect. We will act reciprocally starting from that moment.”
He also challenged Russia’s commitment to peace, saying meaningful action was still lacking. “It is time for Russian leaders to take real steps to end their war, especially since Russia’s Defense Ministry believes it cannot hold a parade in Moscow without Ukraine’s goodwill,” he added.
May 9, known in Russia as Victory Day, commemorates the Soviet Union’s defeat of Nazi Germany in World War II. Most Western countries mark the occasion on May 8, known as Victory in Europe Day, due to time zone differences.