Will Russia Pause Fighting on Victory Day? An Expert Weighs In

A potential three-day truce between Ukraine and Russia set for May 9 could be merely theoretical, with uncertainty surrounding whether Russian forces will genuinely halt their attacks. The situation seems similar to what occurred during the supposed Easter ceasefire, according to Oleksandr Musiienko, a member of the Territorial Defense Forces within the Ukrainian Armed Forces and a military analyst, who shared his insights in an interview featured on the RBC-Ukraine YouTube channel.

The question is still unresolved; I don’t have a clear-cut response. However, we must differentiate between a ceasefire in theory and a genuine ceasefire. When referring to a theoretical ceasefire, I tend to think it’s likely to occur. By this, I’m suggesting a cease fire lasting for three days.”

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He observed that Ukraine’s stance might mirror its strategy from April 20, when President Zelenskyy stated that Ukrainian troops would retaliate exclusively in response to attacks but maintain restraint wherever there were no hostilities.

He remembered that in some regions, the level of combat activity had diminished and sometimes ceased entirely. However, Russia kept advancing with offensive actions, employing FPV drones and artillery, as well as conducting land attacks.

"In terms of formality, a ceasefire existed. Is it possible for this to occur once more on May 8? I wouldn’t dismiss the idea that Ukraine might react in an identical manner," observed the specialist.

Musiienko emphasized that Ukraine demands a cessation of hostilities for a minimum of 30 days.

"Fundamentally, this is crucial. Whether it's three days, one day, or just a few hours—it simply isn’t sufficient to confirm if Russia is genuinely committed to ending the conflict. We require more time to assess whether their actions will prove effective," he stated conclusively.

Putin desires a ceasefire on May 9.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has stated his desire for a ceasefire with Ukraine between May 8 and 10, coinciding with the 75th anniversary of Victory Day.

The Ukrainian President, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, described this proposition as an act of manipulation. In his view, Putin’s sole intention is to ensure the success of his upcoming Victory Day parade scheduled for May 9.

Furthermore, US Special Envoy to Ukraine Keith Kellogg stressed that Putin's concept was preposterous.