Russian President Vladimir Putin on Monday declared a two-day cease-fire in the conflict with Ukraine to mark the anniversary of the defeat of Nazi Germany in World War II, Russian news agencies reported, citing the Defense Ministry.
"In accordance with a decision of the Supreme Commander-in-Chief of the Russian Armed Forces, Vladimir Putin, a cease-fire has been declared from May 8-9, 2026," the ministry said in a post on state-backed messaging app MAX.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy countered with his own proposed pause in fighting starting earlier, on the night of May 5-6.
Russia's defense ministry said in a statement on Monday that Moscow expected Ukraine to follow the May 8-9 truce and that Russian forces would take all necessary measures to ensure the safety of commemorations marking the defeat of Nazi Germany.
It warned, however, that any attempt by Ukraine to disrupt the celebrations would prompt retaliation.
