Translated with AI
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy declared a ceasefire on the night of May 6. This decision was made in response to Russia's unilateral ceasefire announcement on May 8–9.
According to Zelenskyy, human life is more valuable than any commemorative dates. He noted that Russia has not officially approached Ukraine with ceasefire proposals, limiting itself to statements on social media. In this regard, the president emphasized, Kyiv is taking reciprocal measures and expects Moscow to take steps to ensure a ceasefire.
Earlier, the Russian Ministry of Defense announced its intention to unilaterally cease fire on May 8 and 9 in connection with Victory Day celebrations. Moscow also expressed its expectation that Ukraine would refrain from attacks on Russian territory, warning of possible strikes on central Kyiv should the ceasefire be violated.
In late April, Russian presidential aide Yuri Ushakov announced Moscow's proposal to introduce a short-term ceasefire following a telephone conversation between Russian and US Presidents Vladimir Putin and Donald Trump. According to Ushakov, the Russian leader informed his American counterpart of his readiness to declare a ceasefire for the May 9 celebrations, and Trump supported the initiative.
Donald Trump himself told reporters that he had called for a short-term ceasefire, emphasizing the need to reduce the level of violence.
Volodymyr Zelenskyy, for his part, noted that Ukraine is interested in a long-term ceasefire that will ensure sustainable security and peace, not short-term measures. He instructed Ukrainian representatives to contact Trump's team to clarify the details of the proposals.
Amid increasing drone attacks, the decision has been made to forbid military vehicles from participating in the May 9th parade in Moscow. Residents of the Russian capital have also been warned of possible communication restrictions in the coming days.
