Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced on Thursday that Kyiv would seek further details from Washington regarding a Kremlin proposal for a ceasefire on May 9, the day Russia holds large-scale World War II commemorations. The offer, made by Russian President Vladimir Putin during a call with US President Donald Trump, aims to pause hostilities in the ongoing four-year invasion of Ukraine. The Kremlin stated that Trump supported the initiative.
Russia's Victory Day Plans
Earlier this week, Russia announced that no military hardware would be featured in this year's Victory Day celebrations, breaking with the traditional display of military strength. The Kremlin cited precautionary measures due to the threat of Ukrainian retaliatory strikes. The centerpiece of the May 9 celebrations is typically a massive military parade in Red Square, presided over by Putin, with public events across the country and allied world leaders in attendance.
Zelensky's Response
In response to Putin's truce proposal, Zelensky stated that he had instructed his team to obtain more details about the offer. He emphasized Ukraine's ultimate goal of ending the war. “We will clarify what exactly this is about — a few hours of security for a parade in Moscow, or something more,” Zelensky said. “Our proposal is a long-term ceasefire, reliable and guaranteed security for people, and a lasting peace. Ukraine is ready to work toward this in any dignified and effective format.”
Kremlin's Stance
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov clarified on Thursday that the ceasefire is intended to last for Victory Day itself, May 9, with precise timings to be determined by Putin. The United States has been leading efforts to negotiate an end to the invasion, but these efforts have been complicated by divisions and the conflict in the Middle East. The proposed truce follows an Easter ceasefire that was marred by violations from both sides.
Public Opinion in Kyiv
In central Kyiv, residents expressed mixed views on the proposal. Pensioner Nadia Maiboroda, 71, displaced from eastern Ukraine, said, “If it were a complete ceasefire, then yes. But a partial one — no, we shouldn't make concessions to them. They are insidious; they will do what they want, and it will not save us.” Conversely, Vitaliy, a 26-year-old philologist, expressed hope: “Any ceasefire is always good. If it can be stopped for one day, that means it can be stopped for a longer term. The question is who will comply with it and how.”
Continued Hostilities
Ukraine's military has intensified long-range strikes on energy and military targets deep within Russia, aiming to reduce oil revenues funding the war. Russia has continued its drone and missile attacks. On Thursday, Russian forces killed two people in Kherson and wounded 20 in Odesa, according to local officials. The conflict, which began in February 2022, has become Europe's deadliest since World War II, with hundreds of thousands killed and millions displaced.
