Russia and Ukraine Agree to Three-Day Ceasefire Following US-Led Diplomatic Engagement

Mintesinot Niggusie

A three-day ceasefire has been agreed between Russia and Ukraine from May 9 to May 11, US President Donald Trump said, with both Kyiv and Moscow acknowledging arrangements reached through contacts involving the United States.

Trump announced the agreement in a post on Truth Social on Friday, stating that the temporary truce would suspend hostilities during the period. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy later confirmed on X that the truce is part of ongoing diplomatic efforts led by Washington.

Russian presidential aide Yuri Ushakov said an understanding had been reached during communications with the US administration. He said the discussions followed a telephone conversation between Trump and Russian President Vladimir Putin, referencing historical cooperation during World War II.

Trump said the initiative originated from his own request and expressed appreciation to both sides. He added that the ceasefire would also include a prisoner exchange involving 1,000 detainees from each country, a point confirmed by Zelenskyy.

“This Ceasefire will include a suspension of all kinetic activity, and also a prison swap of 1,000 prisoners from each Country,” Trump said, adding that discussions on ending the war were continuing.

He described the development as part of an ongoing diplomatic process and said progress was being made toward a broader settlement of the conflict, which has lasted more than four years.