Russia has announced a 72-hour unilateral ceasefire in Ukraine, urging Kyiv to join the suspension of hostilities. On Monday, Russian President Vladimir Putin declared that Russian forces would halt military operations from midnight on May 7–8 until midnight on May 10–11. The announcement comes as the United States continues to intensify pressure on Moscow to agree to a complete cessation of fighting in the ongoing conflict.

According to a statement issued by the Kremlin, all forms of military engagement will be suspended during this period. The Kremlin emphasized that President Putin made the decision on humanitarian grounds, aiming to create conditions that would potentially ease civilian suffering amid the hostilities.

The Kremlin's statement also called on Ukrainian authorities to participate in the ceasefire, proposing a temporary halt to the violence. However, it firmly warned that any violations by Ukrainian forces would be met with a "proportionate and effective response" from Russia’s armed forces.

Despite the call for a truce, there has been no immediate response from Kyiv regarding Russia's proposal. The Ukrainian government has previously expressed skepticism over Russia’s unilateral ceasefire offers, citing concerns that such moves could be tactical rather than genuinely humanitarian.

As the war continues to escalate, international actors, particularly the United States, have increased their diplomatic efforts to bring about a broader and more lasting ceasefire. However, so far, negotiations for a comprehensive peace settlement have remained elusive, with both sides accusing each other of prolonging the conflict.

The latest Russian initiative signals Moscow's apparent attempt to reposition itself diplomatically while facing growing international condemnation and sanctions over its military actions in Ukraine. Whether this 72-hour ceasefire will lead to any tangible de-escalation remains uncertain as global attention stays fixed on how both sides will respond in the coming days.