Zelensky announces open-ended Ukraine ceasefire ahead of Russian Victory Day

WorldPolitics
5 May 2026 • 2:13 PM MYT
The Independent
The Independent

The world’s most free-thinking newspaper

Zelensky announces open-ended Ukraine ceasefire ahead of Russian Victory Day

  • Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has proposed an open-ended ceasefire, scheduled to commence at 12am on Wednesday 6 May.
  • This follows Russia's request for a two-day truce on 8-9 May to observe Victory Day, marking the 81st anniversary of Nazi Germany's defeat.
  • Mr Zelensky initially dismissed Moscow's request as “not serious” and refused to provide security for a military parade in Moscow.
  • The Russian defence ministry earlier threatened retaliation if the festivities were disrupted.
  • Ukraine will now observe the truce from Wednesday and respond in kind to any Russian actions, with Mr Zelensky not announcing an end date for the temporary ceasefire.