Moscow says fighting will pause briefly to mark the Soviet Union’s World War II victory anniversary.
By yourNEWS Media Newsroom
Russia announced Monday that it will implement a temporary ceasefire in its ongoing war with Ukraine on May 8 and 9, aligning the pause with annual commemorations of the Soviet Union’s victory in World War II.
According to a statement from the Ministry of Defense, the ceasefire was ordered by Vladimir Putin as part of observances tied to what Russia refers to as the “Great Patriotic War.”
“In accordance with the decision of Russian supreme commander-in-chief Vladimir Putin, a ceasefire is declared on May 8-9, 2026, in honor of the celebration of the Soviet people’s victory in the Great Patriotic War,” the ministry said.
The two-day pause coincides with Russia’s annual Victory Day celebrations, which typically include large-scale military parades and national commemorations of the defeat of Nazi Germany.
Moscow has previously declared similar unilateral ceasefires during the conflict, particularly around major Orthodox Christian holidays such as Christmas and Easter. Those pauses have generally been limited in duration and have not resulted in a broader halt to hostilities.
The war between Russia and Ukraine has continued for more than four years, with no immediate resolution in sight.
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