April 30, 2026
Putin proposes Ukraine ceasefire on May 9 Victory Dayceasefire on May 9 Victory Day after call with Trump
Russian President Vladimir Putin proposed a ceasefire in Ukraine on May 9, Russia's Victory Day, during a phone call with U.S. President Donald Trump on April 29. Kremlin aide Yury Ushakov confirmed Putin offered the pause for the holiday duration, and Trump supported the idea. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy stated he is seeking details on the proposal.
This comes amid ongoing war talks, where Russia has set terms like recognition of annexed territories and Ukraine's neutrality, while Kyiv insists on full Russian withdrawal. The proposal could signal a brief de-escalation or diplomatic opening, though past efforts have stalled over territorial disputes.
Russian Perspective
Putin proposed the May 9 ceasefire to honor Victory Day, a key holiday marking the Soviet defeat of Nazi Germany. The offer came in a call with Trump, who endorsed it as a shared victory celebration. It fits Russia's stance that ceasefires should align with its security demands, including recognition of annexed regions.
Ukrainian Perspective
Zelenskyy is requesting clarity on Putin's ceasefire proposal from the U.S. Ukraine maintains that any end to fighting requires full Russian troop withdrawal and restoration of its pre-2014 borders. Past proposals are viewed skeptically as attempts to freeze lines favoring Moscow's gains.
- Victory Day parades feature Russia's largest military display in Red Square annually.
- Yury Ushakov has advised Putin on foreign policy since 2012.
- Soviet victory cost 27 million lives, shaping Russia's holiday reverence.
Russia-Ukraine Ceasefire Violations
Russian forces continue striking Ukrainian regions like Kherson and Mykolaiv, wounding civilians including teenagers despite a US-brokered three-day truce from May 9 to 11 that both sides confirmed.
