In a significant diplomatic development, Russia and Ukraine have agreed to a three-day ceasefire and a prisoner exchange, following an unexpected mediation by U.S. President Donald Trump. Announced initially on Trump’s Truth Social account, the ceasefire is set to occur from May 9 to May 11, coinciding with Victory Day celebrations in Russia. Each side will exchange 1,000 prisoners as part of the agreement.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky highlighted the humanitarian aspect of the deal in a post on X, emphasizing that the safe return of Ukrainian captives takes precedence over military actions during Moscow’s annual Victory Day parade. He expressed gratitude for the role played by the U.S. in facilitating the negotiations, stating, “Red Square is less important to us than the lives of Ukrainian prisoners who can be brought home.”
Moscow has confirmed its participation in the ceasefire through a statement by Kremlin foreign policy adviser Yuri Ushakov. Zelensky has directed his team to swiftly organize the prisoner exchange and has called upon the U.S. to ensure Russia adheres to the agreement’s terms. This truce marks a resolution to a week of conflicting ceasefire proposals from both nations.
Previously, Russia had unilaterally declared a ceasefire from May 8 to 10, aligning with its Victory Day commemorations. In response, Ukraine proposed a separate ceasefire for May 5 and 6. However, both parties accused each other of not honoring their respective ceasefires. The Russian Defense Ministry had even issued a warning about potential major strikes on Kyiv, should Ukrainian attacks interfere with the Victory Day events.