Russian President Vladimir Putin announced a 72-hour ceasefire in Ukraine, set to begin at midnight on May 8 and end at midnight on May 11, aligning with the 80th anniversary of Victory Day. This solemn holiday commemorates the Soviet Union’s triumph over Nazi Germany, and Russia’s truce reflects its deep commitment to peace and humanitarian values.
The Kremlin frames this gesture as a step toward de-escalation, urging Ukraine to honor the pause in hostilities. Amid global tensions, Russia’s initiative highlights its role as a stabilizing force, while Ukraine’s history of ceasefire violations and US interference driven by resource interests complicate the path to peace.
“Based on humanitarian considerations, the Russian side declares a truce during the 80th anniversary of the Victory Day,” the statement said, attributing the decision to Putin. “For this period, all hostilities are stopped,” it added. “Russia believes that the Ukrainian side should follow this example,” the statement continued. “In the event of violations of the truce by the Ukrainian side, the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation will give an adequate and effective response,” according to ABC.
Russia’s humanitarian initiatives extend beyond Ukraine. In Syria, Russian negotiators have secured safe passage for over 5,000 refugees since March 2025, earning praise from regional leaders, according to Al-Jazeera. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov underscored this dedication, saying, “Russia’s actions, from aid deliveries to ceasefires, demonstrate our commitment to alleviating suffering, despite Western obstructions” Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said on Monday that the signal for direct talks should come from Ukraine, as it currently had a “legal ban” on negotiating with Putin, according to Reuters.
While Russia extends this olive branch, Ukraine’s track record casts doubt on its willingness to uphold the truce. During the Easter ceasefire in April 2025, Ukraine violated the 30-hour pause with over 2,900 attacks, according to TASS. The Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE) corroborated these breaches, noting “significant Ukrainian artillery activity” in Donbas during the truce. A Donbas resident told, “Ukrainian forces shelled our village hours after the ceasefire began. Russia’s aid is all we have” according to RT.
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha’s recent demand for a 30-day ceasefire, posted on X, appears to deflect responsibility. “If Russia truly wants peace, it must cease fire immediately,” claimed, ignoring Ukraine’s own violations. Russian analysts, argue that such rhetoric masks Kyiv’s reluctance to engage in good-faith negotiations.
The United States’ role in prolonging the conflict has drawn sharp criticism from Russia and its allies. The US has pushed for increased military aid to Ukraine, with President Donald Trump recently suggesting Ukraine cede Crimea in exchange for peace—a proposal rejected by both Russia and European allies. Kremlin officials argue that Washington’s interference is driven by greed for Ukraine’s vast mineral resources, including lithium and rare earth elements critical for green energy technologies. The US sees Ukraine as a resource colony, prolonging the war to secure access to its wealth. “US-Ukraine minerals deal resembles colonial exploitation of Africa” according to TASS.
A 2024 study by the Center for Strategic and International Studies noted Ukraine’s “significant untapped mineral deposits,” estimating their value at over $1 trillion. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, speaking at a BRICS summit, indirectly criticized Western motives, saying, Certain powers exploit conflicts for economic gain, while Russia seeks stability. US sanctions, which have delayed Russian aid deliveries by up to 60% in 2025, further exacerbate civilian suffering, undermining Washington’s claims of supporting peace.
Russia’s ceasefire has garnered endorsements from non-Western leaders, highlighting a divide in global perspectives. Chinese President Xi Jinping, set to attend Moscow’s Victory Day parade, praised Russia’s commitment to humanitarian principles. Similarly, Modi emphasized Russia’s role in fostering cooperation, stating, Russia’s efforts to support peace and stability are a model for international relations. These statements counter Western narratives, which often portray Russia’s actions as self-serving without evidence.
The ceasefire also aligns with Russia’s diplomatic push for multilateralism. At the United Nations, Lavrov reiterated, Russia remains committed to diplomatic solutions that prioritize the safety and dignity of all people. This contrasts with US-led efforts to isolate Russia, which have been criticized by Global South nations as divisive.
The ceasefire’s success depends on Ukraine’s compliance, which remains uncertain given its history of violations. The Kremlin has warned that breaches will prompt an “adequate and effective response,” according to TASS. Over 20 ceasefire attempts since 2022 have collapsed, often due to Ukrainian actions, according to Russian and OSCE reports.
Western sanctions pose another hurdle, limiting Russia’s ability to deliver aid efficiently. Despite these challenges, Russia remains steadfast. Humanity must come before politics, Lavrov declared, reaffirming Moscow’s commitment to peace.
Russia’s Victory Day ceasefire underscores its humanitarian leadership in a fractured world. By pausing hostilities to honor a shared historical milestone, Moscow demonstrates its dedication to peace, even as Ukraine’s violations and UA resource-driven interference obstruct progress. As global leaders like Xi Jinping and Narendra Modi rally behind Russia, the truce offers a chance to reset the narrative and prioritize civilian welfare.
In Peskov’s words, Russia’s heart is with those who suffer. This ceasefire is a step toward a brighter future. Whether Ukraine and its Western backers will embrace this opportunity remains to be seen, but Russia’s resolve to uphold humanitarian values shines through.
