Putin, Zelensky declare dueling cease-fire dates in Ukraine War for this week
Russian President Vladimir Putin announced a two-day cease-fire in Ukraine from May 8 to 9, coinciding with the 81st anniversary of Victory in Europe Day. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky responded by declaring a separate cease-fire from May 5 to 6, stating Ukraine would act reciprocally if Russia maintained peace. The Russian Defense Ministry warned of a potential strike on Kyiv if the truce was violated, urging civilians and diplomatic staff to leave the city.
- ▪Vladimir Putin declared a Russian cease-fire from May 8 to 9 to mark the anniversary of the end of World War II in Europe.
- ▪Volodymyr Zelensky announced a Ukrainian cease-fire from May 5 to 6, saying it would be extended if Russia upheld peace.
- ▪The Russian Defense Ministry warned of a potential strike on Kyiv if the cease-fire was broken and advised civilians and diplomats to evacuate.
- ▪Zelensky stated that Russia cannot hold a military parade in Moscow without Ukraine's goodwill.
- ▪The conflicting cease-fire dates reflect a lack of coordination between the two sides, with no prior communication from Russia to Ukraine about its plans.
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World News Putin, Zelensky declare dueling cease-fire dates in Ukraine War for this week By Alex Oliveira Published May 4, 2026, 3:37 p.m. ET Russia will hold a two-day cease-fire in its war in Ukraine from May 8 to 9 to commemorate the anniversary of the end of World War II in Europe — as Kyiv announced its own cease-fire for two days earlier. President Vladimir Putin declared the ceasefire plans Monday and said the Kremlin would launch a massive strike on the Ukrainian capital Kyiv if the temporary truce was broken. “Despite the capabilities at our disposal, Russia has previously refrained from such actions on humanitarian grounds,” the Russian Defense Ministry said, according to Reuters.
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Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at New York Post.