Putin Proposes May 9 Ceasefire to Trump; Ukraine Seeks Clarity on Scope
Primary region Europe
Tags Diplomacy
Regions Europe
Russian President Vladimir Putin proposed a short-term ceasefire to US President Donald Trump during an April 29 phone call, timed to coincide with Russia's May 9 Victory Day commemorations. Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov said no concrete decision had been made on specific terms. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Ukraine is seeking clarity on whether the proposal represents 'a few hours of security for a parade in Moscow or something more,' and called instead for an unconditional long-term ceasefire with guaranteed security provisions. US envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner may visit Kyiv soon to reboot talks. Russian forces advanced at roughly half the pace in early 2026 compared to 2025, according to the Institute for the Study of War.
Strategic interpretation
Putin's ceasefire proposal appears designed to secure a symbolic pause for Victory Day while preserving Russia's territorial gains, rather than signaling genuine negotiation intent. Ukraine's insistence on a long-term ceasefire with security guarantees reflects deep skepticism based on past Russian violations. The proposal tests the US-Europe unity on Ukraine, as European allies remain committed to supporting Kyiv while Trump may be receptive to a deal that allows the US to focus on the Iran conflict.