Russian President Vladimir Putin has proposed a temporary ceasefire with Ukraine on May 9, coinciding with Russia’s annual Victory Day celebrations marking the Soviet Union’s defeat of Nazi Germany in World War II.
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According to reports citing the Russian president’s diplomatic adviser, Putin raised the proposal during discussions with US President Donald Trump, suggesting a pause in hostilities during the commemorative events.
Victory Day is one of Russia’s most significant national holidays and is observed with military parades, official ceremonies, and public events honouring the Soviet victory over Nazi Germany in 1945.
Russian President Putin offers ceasefire in fighting in Ukraine on May 9, when Russia celebrates Soviet Union’s WWII victory over Nazi Germany, Kremlin says pic.twitter.com/2uKPWmqjC1
— TRT World Now (@TRTWorldNow) April 29, 2026
The Kremlin’s proposal for a temporary ceasefire appears aimed at reducing tensions during the symbolic national occasion while potentially opening limited space for diplomatic engagement.
Reports indicated that Trump supported the suggestion during the conversation, reportedly describing Victory Day as a shared historical achievement in defeating Nazi Germany.
No immediate response has been reported from Ukrainian officials regarding the proposed temporary pause in fighting.
The conflict between Russia and Ukraine has continued for more than four years, with repeated international efforts to secure either a lasting ceasefire or broader peace settlement producing limited results.
Temporary pauses in fighting have previously been proposed around religious holidays or humanitarian corridors, though both sides have often accused each other of violating such arrangements.
Analysts say even a short-term ceasefire could offer a symbolic gesture toward de-escalation, though it is unlikely to alter the broader military or political dynamics without substantive negotiations.
The proposal comes amid renewed diplomatic activity involving several international actors seeking ways to reduce hostilities and encourage dialogue between Moscow and Kyiv.
Victory Day celebrations on May 9 are expected to draw major political and military attention in Russia, making any ceasefire during that period particularly significant from both symbolic and security perspectives.
While no formal agreement has been announced, the offer signals a possible willingness from Moscow to consider limited pauses in fighting under specific circumstances.
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Whether the proposal develops into broader talks remains uncertain as both sides continue to maintain sharply different positions on key issues related to territory, security guarantees, and future political arrangements.