A three-day ceasefire in the conflict between Russia and Ukraine is set to begin tomorrow, following a direct request by President Donald J. Trump. The suspension of hostilities will take effect on May 9th, 10th, and 11th, coinciding with Victory Day commemorations.
The agreement includes a complete suspension of all kinetic activity on the battlefield. In addition to the pause in fighting, both nations have agreed to a major humanitarian exchange involving the release of 1,000 prisoners of war from each side.
President Trump confirmed that the arrangement was reached after direct communication with Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
President Zelenskyy confirmed the deal in a statement, emphasizing that the return of captured personnel outweighed other military considerations.
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“Red Square is less important to us than the lives of Ukrainian prisoners who can be brought home,” Zelenskyy said. He noted that while Ukraine maintains a principle of symmetry regarding long-range actions, the humanitarian crisis took precedence.
“That is why today, within the framework of the negotiating process mediated by the American side, we received Russia’s agreement to conduct a prisoner exchange in the format of 1,000 for 1,000,” Zelenskyy added. He stated he has instructed his team to prepare for the exchange immediately and called on the United States to ensure Russia fulfills the agreement.
The timing of the truce aligns with the historical anniversary of the end of World War II, a period in which both Russia and Ukraine played significant roles. President Trump expressed gratitude to both leaders for their cooperation, stating, “Hopefully, it is the beginning of the end of a very long, deadly, and hard fought War.”
He also noted that diplomatic discussions regarding a permanent resolution to the war are ongoing, adding that “talks are continuing on ending this Major Conflict… and we are getting closer and closer every day.”
As the three-day window approaches, international observers are monitoring the front lines for the cessation of strikes. This development represents the most significant pause in combat operations since the invasion began, providing a brief window for the massive prisoner exchange to be carried out.
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