Russian President Putin recently announced an important decision: from the early morning of May 8 to the early morning of May 11 (a total of three days), military operations on the Ukrainian battlefield will be paused. This is the second time Russia has announced a ceasefire this year, the last being a 30-hour ceasefire during Easter on April 19, when both sides accused each other of violating the agreement.

Three key points of the ceasefire:​​

1. Why choose this time?​​

Putin stated this is to commemorate the Soviet Union's victory over Nazi Germany during World War II on "Victory Day" (May 9), emphasizing that this is out of humanitarian considerations.

However, external analysis suggests that this move may be an attempt to showcase Russia's peaceful stance against the backdrop of U.S. President Trump's pressure on Russia to "seriously ceasefire."

2. How does Ukraine respond?​​

The Ukrainian side believes the three-day ceasefire is merely a "symbolic gesture," with President Zelensky clearly stating: "If we are to ceasefire, it should start now, not wait until May 8!"

The Ukrainian Foreign Minister further pointed out that this move by Russia may be to avoid drone attacks during the Victory Day parade.

3. The game behind the ceasefire​​

The Russian side emphasizes:

If the Ukrainian military launches attacks during the ceasefire, the Russian military will "immediately and effectively retaliate."

U.S. attitude:

Trump welcomes the ceasefire but hopes for a "permanent ceasefire" and questions whether Putin "just wants to buy time."

The focus of controversy:

The Russian side demands the Ukrainian military withdraw from four regions and abandon joining NATO, while Ukraine insists on an unconditional ceasefire.

It is noteworthy that this ceasefire agreement is still unilaterally announced by the Russian side, without reaching a consensus with Ukraine.

Analysts point out that the Russian military may want to take advantage of the ceasefire to regroup, while the Ukrainian side fears this is a ploy by Russia to buy time for a subsequent offensive.