Moscow, (EFE).- A three-day unilateral ceasefire announced by Russian President Vladimir Putin takes effect by midnight, despite Ukraine’s refusal to the Kremlin’s initiative.
The temporary truce is set to last 72 hours, until midnight on May 10-11, coinciding with the 80th anniversary of the Red Army’s victory over Nazi in World War II.
“Yes, the initiative from the Russian side, from President Putin, is in effect,” said Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov in his daily press briefing.
The ceasefire comes ahead of Victory Day celebrations in Moscow, where around 30 foreign leaders are expected to attend a military parade in Red Square on May 9.
Putin met today with the presidents of Venezuela and Cuba, and is scheduled to receive China’s president tomorrow, followed by leaders from Brazil, Slovakia on Friday.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy not only rejected the ceasefire but warned that Kyiv cannot guarantee the safety of any leader traveling to Moscow.
Putin, as with a previous short Easter truce, cited humanitarian reasons for the decision and called on Kyiv to reciprocate.
The Kremlin condemned a series of recent Ukrainian drone strikes on Russian territory, including Moscow, which disrupted operations at airports and forced the delay or cancellation of hundreds of flights on Wednesday.
“Kiev continues to reveal its terrorist nature,” Peskov said, adding that Ukraine’s refusal to halt hostilities “justifies the continuation of the special military operation.”
He noted that Putin has not issued new military orders regarding the drone attack but had instructed the army to respond decisively to any provocation.
Despite the threats, Pesvok assured that Russian forces are working to ensure the Victory Day festivities proceed “peacefully and securely.”
Initially, the White House declined to temporary ceasefires, instead calling for a lasting halt to hostilities.
However, United States President Donald Trump expressed for Putin’s initiative earlier this week.
“As you know, President Putin just announced a three-day ceasefire. It may not sound like much, but it’s actually significant,” Trump stated.
Ukraine’s Foreign Minister Andryi Sibiga and President Zelenskyy dismissed the truce as propaganda and reiterated calls for a minimum 30-day ceasefire.
Zelenskyy argued that it is fair for Russian skies to be unsafe during this period, but did not clarify whether Ukraine would suspend attacks during the 72-hour truce.
Russian officials accused Zelenskyy of threatening foreign dignitaries and dishonoring the memory of Ukrainian veterans who fought against the Nazis in World War II. EFE
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