In a significant diplomatic development, Russia and Ukraine have agreed to a three-day ceasefire and a prisoner swap, following an unexpected intervention by U.S. President Donald Trump. The ceasefire will take place from May 9 through May 11, coinciding with Russia’s Victory Day celebrations. As part of this agreement, each side will exchange 1,000 prisoners.
President Volodymyr Zelensky of Ukraine confirmed the deal in a post on X, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing the recovery of captured Ukrainian troops over military actions against Moscow during its Victory Day parade. Zelensky expressed gratitude for the “negotiating process mediated by the American side,” specifically acknowledging the role of President Trump and his team in facilitating the agreement.
The Kremlin also confirmed its participation in the ceasefire through foreign policy adviser Yuri Ushakov. This agreement marks the end of a week filled with confusion over rival ceasefires proposed by both countries. Russia had initially announced a unilateral ceasefire from May 8 to 10, which was met with Ukraine’s proposal for a ceasefire from May 5 to 6. Accusations of ceasefire violations were exchanged between the two sides, heightening tensions.
Zelensky has instructed his team to swiftly prepare for the prisoner exchange and has called on the United States to ensure Russia adheres to the terms of the agreement. The Ukrainian leader underscored the significance of bringing home Ukrainian prisoners, suggesting that reclaiming Red Square is secondary to this humanitarian goal.
The Russian Defense Ministry had previously issued a warning, threatening a major strike on Kyiv if Ukrainian attacks during Saturday’s Victory Day disrupted the celebrations. This latest agreement, therefore, not only aims to facilitate the humanitarian exchange but also seeks to prevent further escalation of hostilities during this sensitive period.