Putin proposes ceasefire to ensure safety of Victory Day celebrations
- The Russian government has announced a three-day ceasefire to protect its Victory Day celebrations from potential Ukrainian attacks.
- Zelensky has emphasized Ukraine's intent to target Russian military forces to compel diplomatic negotiations.
- The escalation in rhetoric underscores the ongoing tensions amidst historical perceptions of the conflict.
In early May 2025, Russia announced a unilateral three-day ceasefire coinciding with the festivities commemorating the victory over Nazi Germany in World War II, particularly aimed at securing the annual military parade held on May 9 in Moscow's Red Square. Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky warned that this ceasefire attempt was merely a tactic to allow Russia to hold the parade without the threat of Ukrainian attacks. Zelensky described this ceasefire as insufficient, advocating instead for a more extended, unconditional peace arrangement lasting at least 30 days. The tensions surrounding the ceasefire are rooted in ongoing hostilities over Ukraine's territorial integrity and governance, especially following Russia's full-scale invasion in 2022. The Kremlin's offer for cessation of hostilities serves a dual purpose; it allows the military parade to proceed unencumbered while also framing Russia as a party seeking peace, despite the grave humanitarian consequences of the ongoing conflict. Zelensky specifically mentioned targeting Russian military