Russia to Observe 3-day Ceasefire for Victory Day Despite Kiev's Rejection

The Russian government confirmed Tuesday that it will proceed with a unilateral 72-hour ceasefire beginning overnight on May 7–8, despite Ukraine’s refusal to join in the truce. The ceasefire, ordered by President Vladimir Putin, is intended to coincide with Victory Day commemorations on May 9, marking the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II in Europe.

Russian Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova stated that the pause in hostilities will begin at midnight local time and continue until the night of May 10–11. “President Vladimir Putin's proposal to cease fire for three days in connection with the 80th anniversary of Victory in Europe Day will come into force overnight into May 8, although Ukraine did not pause hostilities for the Easter truce,” she said.

Despite the ceasefire announcement, officials in Moscow appear doubtful that the 72 hours will be calm. Russia previously implemented a 30-hour unilateral truce during the Orthodox Easter holiday last month. According to Russian authorities, Ukrainian forces violated that ceasefire over 5,000 times and used the lull to advance in some sectors, including capturing a monastery inside Russia’s Kursk region that had been briefly under Russian control.

While Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky initially the Easter ceasefire, he has rejected the Victory Day pause, calling instead for a more extensive 30-day truce.

The ceasefire comes amid heightened tensions and heavy symbolism, as at least 29 foreign leaders are expected in Moscow for the May 9 celebrations, including Chinese President Xi Jinping. Xi’s visit is both ceremonial and strategic, marking a four-day state visit involving high-level talks with Putin.

Zakharova also referenced recent remarks by Zelensky that appeared to question the safety of visiting foreign dignitaries. Following backlash, Zelensky said he could not guarantee the security of events on Russian soil, implying that Russia bore full responsibility for any potential incidents. According to some reports, Chinese officials privately warned Western backers of Ukraine that any attack during Xi’s visit could prompt Chinese intervention—reportedly pressuring European leaders to urge Kiev to scale back its rhetoric.

Despite the ceasefire, the battlefield is expected to remain volatile, with few expecting a total cessation of hostilities during the truce period.