US President Donald Trump has announced a three-day ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine, set to take effect from May 9 to May 11, 2026. The agreement marks a temporary halt in fighting after months of continued conflict.
The ceasefire was brokered through US-led diplomatic efforts involving both Russian and Ukrainian representatives. During this period, all military operations along the frontline will be paused.
A key part of the agreement is a prisoner exchange involving around 1,000 prisoners of war from both sides. The swap is being described as one of the largest since the war began in 2022 and is intended as a humanitarian step alongside the truce.
The timing of the ceasefire coincides with Russia’s Victory Day commemorations on May 9, a major national event marking the end of World War II in Europe. Russia had earlier indicated a short pause in fighting for the occasion, while Ukraine had also proposed a temporary ceasefire, which helped align the final agreement.
Trump said the ceasefire could open the door to broader peace negotiations and expressed hope that it may lead to longer-term stability. However, he did not confirm whether further talks have been scheduled after the three-day pause.
Both Russian and Ukrainian officials have acknowledged the arrangement, though past attempts at ceasefires in the conflict have often been short-lived or broken.
The Russia–Ukraine war, which began in 2022, has seen repeated efforts at diplomatic resolution without lasting success. Analysts note that while this latest truce is limited in duration, it represents a rare coordinated pause in hostilities and a potential opening for renewed negotiations.
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