Following prior announcements from Russian President Vladimir Putin regarding a truce for May 8th and 9th, and Ukraine’s own call for an indefinite cessation of hostilities starting May 6th, U.S. President Donald Trump has now commented on the situation. Trump posted on his personal platform stating, “I am pleased to announce that there will be a three-day ceasefire (May 9th, 10th, and 11th) in the war between Russia and Ukraine”. He added that this truce includes the cessation of all fighting and a reciprocal exchange of 1,000 prisoners from each country.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed Trump’s statements. In social media posts, Zelensky wrote that, “We have received Russia’s consent for a prisoner exchange of 1,000 to 1,000” as part of the US-mediated negotiation process. He also stressed the necessity of the ceasefire commencing on May 9th, 10th, and 11th. Zelensky emphasized Ukraine’s continued efforts to bring its citizens home from Russian captivity, announcing, “I have instructed our team to immediately make all necessary preparations for the exchange”.
The timing of these announcements coincides with commemorations related to the end of the Second World War. On May 8th, Ukraine observes the day of the war casualties, while Russia is scheduled to host a military parade on Red Square in Moscow for Victory Day on May 9th. Adding to the tension, both Kyiv and Moscow had exchanged accusations recently, claiming violations of unilaterally declared ceasefires. The Russian side reported more than 1,000 alleged violations in the conflict zone, along with drone attacks near Moscow. Conversely, Ukraine accused Russia of continuing aggression against its positions.