US President Donald Trump announced on May 8, 2026, that Russia and Ukraine had agreed to a three-day ceasefire starting May 9. The temporary halt in fighting will last until May 11 and includes a major prisoner exchange of 1,000 prisoners from each side.
Trump posted on Truth Social that he personally requested the ceasefire from Russian President Vladimir Putin and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, and both leaders agreed. He called it a positive step and hoped it would become “the beginning of the end” of the war that had lasted more than four years.
The ceasefire coincides with Russia’s Victory Day celebrations on May 9. Both Russia and Ukraine have confirmed they will observe the pause in fighting. The agreement was brokered with US mediation.
Trump presented the development as a major diplomatic success. He praised his own efforts in pushing for peace talks since returning to office. Many of his supporters hailed him as the leader who finally brought some relief after years of conflict.
However, it is noted that this is only a short humanitarian pause, not a permanent ceasefire or full peace deal. Previous short ceasefires in the war have often broken down quickly.
Talks for a longer-term solution are said to be continuing. The world is watching whether this three-day truce can build trust and lead to bigger progress toward ending the devastating war.
