US President Donald Trump Announces Three-Day Ceasefire Between Russia and Ukraine

US President Donald Trump has announced a three-day ceasefire in the conflict between Russia and Ukraine, scheduled for May 9–11. The agreement, which he personally requested, includes a suspension of hostilities and a prisoner exchange.

Key points

• The ceasefire involves a prisoner swap of 1,000 individuals from each side.
• President Donald Trump stated that both Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky agreed to the proposal.
• The dates coincide with Victory Day celebrations in Russia, which also holds historical significance for Ukraine regarding World War II.
• Negotiations to end the broader conflict are ongoing.

Why it matters

This development represents a significant, albeit temporary, diplomatic intervention by the US in the largest military conflict since World War II, potentially signaling a shift in the war's trajectory.