WASHINGTON: U.S. President Donald Trump announced on Saturday that Russia and Ukraine have agreed to a three-day ceasefire starting May 9, during which both nations will commemorate the Soviet Union’s victory in World War II and exchange 1,000 prisoners of war.
In a social media post, Trump stated that the ceasefire will take effect on May 9, 10, and 11. He noted that the date holds historical significance, as it marks the anniversary of the Soviet Union’s triumph over Nazi Germany—a victory in which both Russia and Ukraine fought together as part of the Soviet Red Army.
“This day is celebrated to commemorate the victory of the Soviet Union in World War II, where Ukraine and Russia were together,” Trump wrote.
According to the U.S. president, he personally requested the temporary truce, and both Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky agreed to the terms. During the three-day pause in hostilities, the two sides will also carry out a prisoner exchange involving 1,000 individuals.
Trump expressed optimism that the limited ceasefire could pave the way for a broader resolution to the 14-month-old war. “This ceasefire will be the beginning of an end to the long war between the two countries,” he said. “Negotiations are underway to resolve the Russia-Ukraine conflict, and we are getting closer to ending this war every day.”
