Ukraine War: Russia Announces Ceasefire, Awaits Kyiv’s Response
Russian President Vladimir Putin has announced a three-day ceasefire in the ongoing conflict with Ukraine, set to take place from May 8 to May 10, 2025.
According to *India Times*, the Kremlin described the move as an opportunity to revive stalled peace negotiations, expressing hope that Ukraine would respond positively. In a statement, the Russian government offered to enter into "unconditional" direct talks with Kyiv for the first time since the full-scale invasion began in early 2022, but emphasized that Ukraine must first indicate its readiness to engage.
Despite the offer, Ukraine has consistently ruled out direct negotiations with Putin following Russia's controversial annexation of four Ukrainian regions. However, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has reiterated that his government remains open to dialogue if a credible temporary ceasefire is observed.
The latest announcement follows a brief Easter truce declared by Russia in April 2025, which lasted less than 30 hours amid ongoing clashes and mutual accusations of violations. Analysts at the time viewed the gesture as largely symbolic with little substantive impact on the conflict.
Unlike the previous truce, the upcoming ceasefire is considered more significant due to its longer duration and the advance notice given, potentially allowing both military and humanitarian actors to make necessary preparations. However, widespread skepticism remains, with observers warning that deep-rooted mistrust and a history of broken ceasefires may hinder any substantial progress toward lasting peace.
The success of the ceasefire, analysts say, will depend largely on the willingness of both Russian and Ukrainian forces to honor the agreement and use the pause as a genuine stepping stone toward renewed negotiations.
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