A three-day ceasefire and a prisoner exchange between Russia and Ukraine have been confirmed, following an unexpected diplomatic intervention by U.S. President Donald Trump. Announced by Trump on Truth Social, the ceasefire will take effect from May 9 to May 11, aligning with Russia’s Victory Day celebrations. As part of the agreement, both nations will exchange 1,000 prisoners.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky acknowledged the significant development in a post on X, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing the recovery of captured troops over military actions during Moscow’s Victory Day parade. Highlighting the humanitarian aspect, Zelensky remarked, “Red Square is less important to us than the lives of Ukrainian prisoners who can be brought home.” He expressed gratitude towards Trump and the American mediation for facilitating the agreement.
In Moscow, Kremlin foreign policy adviser Yuri Ushakov confirmed Russia’s commitment to the ceasefire, as reported by the state-run news agencies. Meanwhile, Zelensky has instructed his team to prepare quickly for the prisoner exchange, urging the United States to ensure that Russia adheres to the agreed terms.
The arrangement comes after a week marked by conflicting ceasefires declared by both nations. Russia had previously announced a unilateral ceasefire from May 8 to May 10 for Victory Day, while Ukraine proposed its ceasefire for May 5 to May 6. Each side accused the other of ceasefire violations, with the Russian Defense Ministry threatening a significant strike on Kyiv if Ukrainian attacks interfered with the Victory Day celebrations.