Commenting on the timing of a proposed May ceasefire, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said the focus is currently on Russia’s Victory Day.
Asked about specific dates, Peskov said no decision has yet been made by Vladimir Putin.
On April 29, the Kremlin said U.S. President Donald Trump and Putin discussed Ukraine, Iran and “projects in the economy and energy sector” during a phone call. Putin’s aide Yuri Ushakov said Putin expressed readiness to declare a ceasefire “for the Victory Day period.” He also reiterated that the goals of what Russia calls its “special military operation” would be achieved.
Trump described the call as “very good” and said he had proposed a “small ceasefire,” adding that Putin might agree.
Trump said he believed Putin had been ready for a peace deal “some time ago,” but that “certain people” had complicated the decision.
On April 30, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said he had instructed Ukrainian representatives in the United States to contact Trump’s team to clarify details of Russia’s proposed ceasefire for May 9.
“We will clarify what exactly is meant — a few hours of security for a parade in Moscow or something more. Our proposal is a long-term ceasefire that guarantees reliable security for people and a lasting peace,” Zelenskyy said.
Since 2023, Ukraine has officially marked the Day of Remembrance and Victory over Nazism on May 8, in line with most European countries, following the adoption of law No. 9278.