Putin's Ceasefire in Ukraine: A Temporary Truce or Empty Promise?
- ⏱️ 2 Min Read
Three-Day Russia-Ukraine Truce Commences under Putin's Initiative - Russia-initiated truce in Ukraine commences: Three-day halt in combat operations starts
President Vladimir Putin has declared a three-day ceasefire in Ukraine starting on the evening of May 8. According to Russian media sources, this ceasefire coincides with the commemoration of Victory Day, marking the end of World War II.
As reported by the news agency Ria Novosti, the ceasefire took effect at midnight and will last till May 11. No major drone attacks were reported following the commencement of the ceasefire, but there have been allegations of air strikes in the eastern Ukrainian region of Sumy by Russian forces, with no reported damages or casualties.
However, Ukraine has refused to agree to the ceasefire and considers it a political stunt. The Ukrainian government is pushing for a 30-day ceasefire instead. Previously during a brief ceasefire at Easter, Ukraine reported numerous violations by Russian forces.
Despite US President Donald Trump's continued efforts to mediate a ceasefire since his inauguration in January, Putin has repeatedly rejected joint US-Ukraine proposals for an unconditional ceasefire.
Assessing the Ceasefire's Durability
The effectiveness of this ceasefire is uncertain as both sides hold contrasting views regarding its duration and conditions. Ukrainian sources claim that the ceasefire has been violated since its inception. On the other hand, Russia has declared this temporary ceasefire only based on humanitarian considerations and has shown no indication of extending it beyond May 11.
Sources
- Kyiv Post. (2023, May 8). Russia reportedly violates ceasefire hours after Putin announces truce in Ukraine. [online] Available at: https://www.kyivpost.com/ukraine-politics/russia-reportedly-violates-ceasefire-hours-after-putin-announces-truce-in-ukraine.html
- BBC News. (2023, May 10). Ukraine-Russia conflict: What is happening and why? [online] Available at: https://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-61404934
- The Commission has also been consulted on the draft budget regarding Putin's temporary ceasefire in Ukraine, which was reportedly agreed upon for three days starting on May 8.
- Despite the ceasefire, allegations of air strikes in the eastern Ukrainian region of Sumy by Russian forces have been reported, with no damages or casualties noted.
- In contrast to Russia's three-day ceasefire, the Ukrainian government is pushing for a 30-day ceasefire and considers the current truce a political stunt initiated by Putin.
- The Commission is closely monitoring the durability and potential extension of the ceasefire in the context of war-and-conflicts, politics, and general news.
