Trump Announces Three-Day Ceasefire Following Zelensky Proposal to Putin

Former U.S. President Donald Trump announced a three-day ceasefire in the war between Russia and Ukraine starting May 9, 2024 ^[1].

This development follows a direct letter from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky to Russian President Vladimir Putin. The proposal represents a significant diplomatic push to halt active hostilities, and establish a framework for a large-scale prisoner exchange.

In the letter made public in early May 2024, Zelensky proposed face-to-face negotiations to be held on neutral territory ^[2]. He suggested a temporary ceasefire during these talks to facilitate a diplomatic breakthrough. A central pillar of the proposal is an "all-for-all" formula for the exchange of prisoners of war ^[2].

Trump welcomed the initiative as a step toward the de-escalation of the conflict. According to reports, he said the ceasefire would last for three days, spanning from May 9 to May 11, 2024 ^[1].

While the proposal has gained visibility through Trump's announcement, the response from Moscow has been guarded. A Kremlin spokesperson said that the Kremlin is attempting to maintain a composed exterior regarding the developments ^[2].

Zelensky's strategy aims to leverage a temporary pause in fighting to secure the return of all captured personnel. The "all-for-all" exchange would be the most comprehensive swap of the conflict to date ^[2].

Trump's involvement in announcing the ceasefire dates reflects his stated goal of ending the war quickly. The three-day window is intended to serve as a proof-of-concept for longer-term stability ^[1].