Russia and Ukraine at odds over ceasefire plans

Russia's president, Vladimir Putin, has suggested a brief pause in fighting. This is to honor the 80th anniversary of the Soviet Union's victory in World War II. The ceasefire would last three days, starting on May 8th. This is a significant holiday in both Russia and Ukraine, known as Victory Day. Putin's idea is to stop military actions for "humanitarian reasons. " This is a move that has sparked a lot of debate. Ukraine, on the other hand, has a different idea. They want a longer ceasefire. Ukraine's foreign minister, Andrii Sybiha, asked why wait until May 8th. He suggested a month-long ceasefire instead of a short truce. This would start immediately, not just for a parade. Sybiha emphasized that Ukraine is ready for a lasting and full ceasefire. This would give both sides a real chance to stop fighting, not just a brief pause. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy echoed these sentiments. He stated that Ukraine has not wanted any part of this war. He also called for a 30-day unconditional ceasefire. Zelenskyy made it clear that Ukraine values human lives over parades. This statement came after a tragic event. A teenager and his parents were among 13 civilians killed in a Russian missile attack in Kyiv. Russia has a history of announcing truces that don't last. They previously called for an Easter truce, which both sides agreed to but did not hold. Before that, Ukraine agreed to a U. S. -brokered, 30-day ceasefire. Russia did not join in. Putin argued that Ukraine could use the time to rearm. Ukraine, however, says Russian attacks increased after the U. S. proposed the ceasefire. The Kremlin has called on Ukraine to follow Russia's lead with a Victory Day ceasefire. However, they warned that Russia would respond if Ukraine violates the ceasefire. This is a tense situation. Ukraine used to celebrate Victory Day on May 9th, the traditional Soviet date. But after Russia's full-scale invasion in 2022, Ukraine changed it to May 8th. This is the same day most European countries observe it. This debate comes at a critical time. The Trump administration has said that negotiations to end the war have reached a crucial point. President Trump is frustrated with both countries' leaders. He wants to see a permanent ceasefire. He has expressed doubts about Putin's willingness to end the war. Trump has criticized Russia's recent attacks on Ukraine. He has suggested that Putin might not want to stop the war. This is a complex situation with high stakes for both countries.