War in Ukraine: Vladimir Putin proposes a ceasefire on May 9, Volodymyr Zelensky asks for…

As May 9 approaches, the national holiday in Russia, President Vladimir Putin has expressed a wish for a temporary ceasefire with Ukraine. Volodymyr Zelensky said he is questioning the conditions of this ceasefire.

Russian President Vladimir Putin proposed a ceasefire in Ukraine on May 9, the day Russia celebrates the Soviet victory over Nazi Germany in 1945, the Kremlin announced, stating that Donald Trump approved this initiative.

During a phone call with his American counterpart, Donald Trump, Vladimir Putin said he was ready to “declare a ceasefire for the duration of the Victory Day celebrations,” his diplomatic advisor Yuri Ushakov told the press.

He added that Donald Trump had “actively supported this initiative, noting that this holiday commemorates our common victory.” Since 2023, Ukraine has celebrated the victory of 1945 on May 8, like Western countries.

Unclear conditions

In response, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated on Thursday that he has asked the United States for “details” on the ceasefire conditions. “Ukraine aspires to peace and is conducting the necessary diplomatic work to truly end this war,” the Ukrainian president wrote.

However, he questioned the exact nature of the Russian proposal, wondering if it would be “a few hours of security for a parade in Moscow or something more significant.” “Our proposal is a long-term ceasefire, reliable security and guarantees for the populations, and lasting peace. Ukraine is ready to work towards this goal in any dignified and effective way,” he added.

Since the start of its offensive in Ukraine in February 2022, the worst conflict in Europe since World War II, Russia regularly bombs the entire Ukrainian territory, especially its vital infrastructure.

In retaliation, Kiev targets sites in Russia, claiming to aim for military as well as energy sites to reduce Moscow’s ability to finance its war effort.