Despite the rejection by Volodymyr Zelensky, Russia reaffirms its intention to respect three-day ceasefire in Ukraine, from 8 to 10 May, in commemoration of the 80th anniversary of the Soviet Union’s victory in World War II.

The Kremlin spokesman, Dmitry Peskov, told reporters at a briefing that the ceasefire initiative remains timely and that orders have already been given by Vladimir Putin. “President Putin’s initiative for a temporary ceasefire during the holidays remains topical and relevant orders have already been issued,” he said.

However, Peskov made it clear that Russia reserves the right to respond if, as he said, “the Kiev regime does not do the same” and continues to hit Russian positions and facilities. “The Russian side will cease fire, but if the Kiev regime does not respond and continues to try to hit our positions and infrastructure, then there will be an immediate response,” he said.

It will be recalled that the Ukrainian president called Moscow’s ceasefire proposal a “theatrical performance”, questioning the Kremlin‘s real intentions and rejecting any cessation of hostilities agreement without guarantees.