Russia to Implement 72-Hour Ceasefire in Ukraine, Warns of Oreshnik Missile Use; Ukraine Proposes 30-Day Truce and Demilitarized Zone

Russia has announced plans to implement a 72-hour ceasefire in Ukraine from May 8 to May 10, coinciding with the 80th anniversary of the Soviet Union's victory over Nazi Germany in World War II. The Kremlin has stated that this ceasefire remains in effect, despite Ukraine's rejection of the proposal. Russian forces are set to halt offensive actions during this period, which is intended as a humanitarian gesture. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov has warned that if Ukraine does not reciprocate and continues to attack Russian positions during the ceasefire, Russia will respond immediately with an appropriate counteraction. This statement follows Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky's dismissal of the three-day ceasefire as a 'theatrical performance,' insisting instead on a 30-day truce to allow for genuine negotiations. Additionally, Russia is preparing to use the Oreshnik missile if necessary, amid threats of strikes on Kyiv during the Victory Day Parade. In response to the proposed ceasefire, Zelensky has maintained that Ukraine's offer for a 30-day ceasefire remains in force, but he has accused Russia of not responding to this proposal, suggesting that Russia's actions are the root cause of the ongoing conflict. The situation remains tense, with no indication from Kyiv of willingness to join the three-day ceasefire. Furthermore, U.S. special envoy Keith Kellogg has stated that Putin is the main obstacle to achieving a ceasefire, and Ukraine is ready to establish a 30 km demilitarized zone.