Ukraine has announced a ceasefire initiative coinciding with Russia’s proposed truce for Victory Day, which is set to begin at midnight on May 6. President Volodymyr Zelensky made the announcement via Telegram, stating that there has been no official communication from Russia regarding the terms of the ceasefire.
Zelensky emphasized the value of human life over commemorations, declaring, “We believe that human life is incomparably more valuable than the celebration of any anniversary. Therefore, we announce a ceasefire starting at 00:00 on the night of May 5 to May 6.” He expressed optimism about the possibility of achieving a quiet period before the proposed ceasefire.
He further urged Russian leaders to take genuine steps towards ending the conflict, noting that if the Russian Ministry of Defense believes it cannot hold a parade in Moscow without Ukraine’s consent, it is time for them to act.
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha echoed these sentiments on social media, stating that peace should not be contingent on parades or celebrations. He invited Moscow to cease hostilities as early as the evening of May 5, urging international partners and organizations to support Ukraine’s initiative.
Sybiha remarked, “May 6 will show whether Moscow is serious about peace or merely interested in military parades.”
In a related context, Russian President Vladimir Putin recently expressed willingness to establish a ceasefire during discussions with U.S. President Donald Trump. Ukrainian officials, including Zelensky, have suggested that this proposal serves to protect Russia’s military parade scheduled for May 9.
On May 4, the Russian Ministry of Defense announced that Putin had ordered a ceasefire for May 8-9. However, the ministry also warned that should Ukraine refuse to agree to the ceasefire, Russia would respond with a substantial missile strike on central Kyiv.
Ukraine has proposed a ceasefire starting May 6, coinciding with Russia's request for a truce on Victory Day. Ukrainian officials emphasize the need for genuine peace efforts, while Russia threatens military action if Ukraine does not comply.