Russia and Ukraine Agree to Three-Day Ceasefire and Prisoner Exchange

Russia and Ukraine have agreed to a three-day ceasefire from May 9 to 11, coinciding with Russia's Victory Day celebrations. The agreement includes a suspension of hostilities and the exchange of 1,000 prisoners from each side. U.S. President Donald Trump announced the development, stating that both Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy agreed to the ceasefire. Trump expressed hope that this temporary halt could mark the beginning of the end of the conflict.

Zelenskyy emphasized the importance of the prisoner exchange, noting that the lives of Ukrainian prisoners of war are a priority. He issued a decree declaring Moscow's Red Square off-limits for Ukrainian strikes during the Victory Day parade, underscoring Ukraine's commitment to the ceasefire terms. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov dismissed Zelenskyy's decree as a "silly joke."

The ceasefire is the result of U.S.-led diplomatic efforts, with Zelenskyy thanking Trump and the American team for their effective engagement. He stated that Ukraine expects the United States to ensure Russia fulfills its commitments. Despite this progress, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio noted that diplomatic efforts have largely struggled to achieve lasting outcomes, though the U.S. remains open to facilitating peace if conditions improve.