This announcement comes as Russia marks the 80th anniversary of the Soviet Union and its allies' victory in World War II.
A statement from the Kremlin on Monday, April 28, stated, "All military operations have been suspended from May 8 to May 10. Russia believes the Ukrainian side should follow this example. If Ukrainian forces violate the ceasefire during this period, Russia will respond decisively and strongly."
There was no immediate reaction from Kyiv regarding the unilateral ceasefire announcement. Earlier, Putin had declared a 30-hour Easter ceasefire, but both sides accused each other of violating it.
Amid attempts to mediate, Putin’s second ceasefire declaration sends a message that Russia is still interested in peace. However, Ukraine and its European allies have expressed skepticism, stating they do not believe Russia's intentions.
Last week, Kyiv condemned Russia’s brutal attacks, and former U.S. President Donald Trump criticized Putin. Washington has repeatedly warned that if there is no genuine progress in negotiations, it will abandon peace efforts. The new ceasefire announcement comes just ahead of the weekend.
