Putin's Ceasefire Dismissed by Ukraine, West

Russian President Vladimir Putin announced a unilateral three-day ceasefire in Ukraine from May 8 to May 10, aligning with Russia's Victory Day and described as a humanitarian gesture. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky and Western officials dismissed the move as manipulative, demanding an immediate, unconditional ceasefire lasting at least 30 days. The European Union and United States echoed skepticism, with U.S. President Donald Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio urging a permanent truce and warning that U.S. participation in peace talks could be reconsidered if no progress is made. Zelensky criticized Russia for previously violating ceasefire agreements and stressed the need for genuine negotiations to protect civilians. Both sides have accused each other of breaking prior truces. The diplomatic standoff continues, with Ukraine and its allies seeking more substantial commitments from Moscow.