Russian President Vladimir Putin unilaterally declared a two-day ceasefire in the invasion of Ukraine, set to take effect on May 8 and 9, marking the anniversary of Nazi Germany's surrender and the end of World War II in Europe in 1945.

Russia's Defense Ministry announced the offer and expressed hope that Ukraine would follow suit. It warned that if Ukraine attacks the May 9 commemorations in Moscow, Russia would launch a "massive missile strike" on the center of Kyiv in response.

The ministry stated: "Despite the capabilities at our disposal, Russia has previously refrained from such actions on humanitarian grounds. We are warning the civilian population of Kyiv and staff at foreign diplomatic missions of the need to leave the city in a timely manner."

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy responded on social media, saying Ukraine had received "no official appeal" from Russia. He proposed a separate ceasefire starting at midnight on May 5-6: "We believe that human life is incomparably more valuable than the 'celebration' of any anniversary. We will act in a mirror fashion. It is time for Russian leaders to take real steps to end their war."

Putin first floated the truce idea last week during a phone call with US President Donald Trump. Ukraine subsequently said it would seek details from Washington about the offer.

Speaking at a European Political Community summit in Yerevan, Zelenskyy noted that Russia's scaled-back May 9 parade, without military equipment, showed its vulnerability: "If that happens, it will be the first time in many, many years. They cannot afford military equipment — and they fear drones may buzz over Red Square. This shows they are not strong now."

Source: www.dw.com