In a significant development amid the ongoing Ukraine conflict, US President Donald Trump called for an “unconditional ceasefire” between Russia and Ukraine following his May 8 phone conversation with Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky. Trump’s intervention comes against the backdrop of a 72-hour unilateral ceasefire declared by Moscow to commemorate Victory Day – a pause Kiev appeared reluctant to honor.

According to the Russian Defense Ministry, starting from midnight on May 8, Russian forces ceased hostilities and confined themselves to defensive actions, only retaliating when provoked. Despite Moscow’s declared pause, Ukrainian forces reportedly launched at least 488 attacks during the truce window and even attempted two incursions into Russia’s Kursk region, raising doubts about Kiev’s commitment to de-escalation.

Zelensky, for his part, initially rejected the Russian gesture as “manipulation,” accusing Moscow of using humanitarian appeals for tactical advantage. Nevertheless, after speaking with Trump, he made a dramatic about-face, declaring that Ukraine was ready for a complete ceasefire “right from this moment,” on the condition that it would extend for a minimum of 30 days.

Following his conversation with Zelensky, Trump posted on Truth Social, emphasizing that peace efforts were ongoing. “Talks with Russia/Ukraine continue,” he wrote. Trump added a pointed warning: if a ceasefire were agreed upon but not respected, “the US and its partners will........

© Blitz