Putin orders three-day ceasefire in Ukraine from May 8

Russian President Vladimir Putin has announced a three-day ceasefire in Ukraine, set to begin on 8 May and end on 11 May, to coincide with Russia’s celebrations marking the end of World War Two.

According to a statement from the Kremlin on Monday, the decision was made "based on humanitarian considerations."

The Kremlin said the ceasefire would allow for the observance of Victory Day, an important date in Russia’s history.

The statement also urged Ukraine to observe the ceasefire.

"Russia believes that the Ukrainian side should follow this example," it said.

However, the Kremlin warned that any breach would be met with a firm response, stating, "In the event of violations of the ceasefire by the Ukrainian side, the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation will give an adequate and effective response."

Ukraine has not yet issued a response to the announcement.

The Kremlin also reiterated its willingness to engage in peace efforts.

"The Russian side once again declares its readiness for peace talks without preconditions, aimed at eliminating the root causes of the Ukrainian crisis, and constructive interaction with international partners," the statement added.

Earlier this year, Russia had declared a 30-hour truce during Easter.

Although there were reports of reduced fighting at that time, both Russia and Ukraine accused each other of committing multiple violations during the short-lived ceasefire.

This new ceasefire comes at a time when peace talks between Russia and Ukraine are at a sensitive stage.

The United States has described the current period as a "very critical" week for negotiations between the two countries.

Washington has been making efforts to facilitate a peace deal, but frustrations have grown. The Trump administration has warned that it may withdraw its involvement if no progress is made in the discussions.

Russia’s invasion of Ukraine began on 24 February 2022.

Since then, Russia has taken control of around 20 percent of Ukraine’s territory, including Crimea, which Moscow had earlier annexed in 2014.

The ongoing conflict has led to a devastating loss of life. It is estimated that hundreds of thousands of people, mostly soldiers, have been killed or injured since the fighting began in 2022.