By By Elizabeth Ugbo
United States President Donald Trump announced a three-day ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine on Friday as part of ongoing peace negotiations. The truce will run from May 9 to May 11 and includes a suspension of military operations and a prisoner exchange involving 1,000 captives from each country. Trump revealed the agreement on Truth Social, while Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Russian officials later confirmed the development.
Trump Says Peace Talks Are Advancing
Trump stated that negotiations to end the war are progressing steadily. According to him, discussions between Washington, Moscow, and Kyiv continue to produce positive results.
“Talks are continuing,” Trump said, adding that negotiators are “getting closer and closer every day.”
He also expressed hope that the temporary ceasefire could mark the beginning of the end of the prolonged conflict.
“I am pleased to announce that there will be a THREE DAY CEASEFIRE in the War between Russia and Ukraine,” Trump posted on Truth Social.
Zelenskyy Confirms Ceasefire Agreement
Shortly after Trump’s announcement, Zelenskyy confirmed on X that Ukraine had agreed to the temporary truce. He explained that the ceasefire forms part of US-led diplomatic efforts aimed at ending the war, which has lasted more than four years.
In addition, Zelenskyy confirmed that both countries would carry out a major prisoner exchange during the ceasefire period.
Russia Links Truce to Victory Day Celebrations
Russian presidential aide Yuri Ushakov said Moscow reached the agreement after discussions with the US administration.
According to Ushakov, the understanding followed a recent phone conversation between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Trump.
He noted that both leaders discussed their countries’ alliance during World War II and explored the possibility of a ceasefire during Russia’s Victory Day celebrations.
Previously, Russia announced a unilateral two-day ceasefire to commemorate Victory Day on May 9. However, Ukraine said Moscow ignored its earlier truce proposal.
Ceasefire Includes Suspension of Military Operations
Trump stated that the ceasefire would halt “all kinetic activity” from Saturday through Monday.
Furthermore, he thanked both Putin and Zelenskyy for accepting the arrangement.
“The Celebration in Russia is for Victory Day but, likewise, in Ukraine, because they were also a big part and factor of World War II,” Trump said.
Diplomatic observers believe the temporary truce could create momentum for broader peace negotiations between both countries.
