Zelenskyy announces ceasefire with Russia starting May 5-6 night

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced on Monday that a ceasefire with Russia will begin “starting at 00:00 on the night of May 5–6,” stating that “human life is far more valuable than any anniversary celebration.” In a post on X, Zelenskyy said no official request was made to Ukraine regarding the “cessation of hostilities” announced by Moscow during Victory Day celebrations. He added that Ukraine would respond reciprocally once the truce takes effect. “It is time for Russian leaders to take real steps to end their war, especially since Russia’s Defense Ministry believes it cannot hold a parade in Moscow without Ukraine’s goodwill,” Zelenskyy said.

Russia’s warning

Earlier Monday, the Russian Defense Ministry declared a ceasefire for May 8-9 “in honor of the celebration of the Soviet people’s victory in the Great Patriotic War.” The ministry warned that if Ukraine attempts to disrupt the celebrations, “the Russian Armed Forces will launch a retaliatory, massive missile strike on the center of Kyiv.” The statement cited a threat by Zelenskyy to strike Moscow on May 9. Russian President Vladimir Putin had proposed the Victory Day ceasefire during a phone call with President Trump, who endorsed the idea.