Russia’s latest ceasefire offer in Ukraine has sparked a new wave of mistrust, with critics calling it a publicity stunt meant to influence the United States.
The Kremlin’s proposal for a 72-hour pause in fighting, set to take place from May 8 to 10, has been branded a shallow attempt by President Vladimir Putin to appear reasonable while continuing military operations.
The ceasefire, timed around Russia’s Victory Day celebrations, was framed by Moscow as a humanitarian gesture. But it came only after the Kremlin rejected a broader American request for a month-long truce, a plan that Ukraine was reportedly open to. Observers say the shorter proposal allows Russia to deflect criticism without committing to real de-escalation.
Ukrainian officials have questioned the sincerity behind the offer. Andrii Termark, a member of Ukraine’s government, said the Kremlin has full control over its military actions and could halt attacks immediately if it truly wanted peace. He accused Russia of playing a calculated game to manipulate global opinion and cast doubt on Ukraine’s intentions.
Russia’s lower house speaker Vyacheslav Volodin added fuel to the fire by casting doubt on Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky’s willingness to accept the ceasefire. His statement echoed comments from former U.S. President Donald Trump, who controversially claimed that Ukraine bore responsibility for the war’s outbreak. Although Trump has since softened his stance, the Kremlin appears to be using his earlier remarks to support its narrative.
This is not the first time Russia has proposed a limited truce during major religious or national holidays. A previous 30-hour ceasefire around Easter was also marked by continued accusations from both sides of ongoing violence, undermining trust in such temporary arrangements.
Critics say the timing of this latest ceasefire — just as political winds shift in Washington — is no coincidence. With Trump back in the spotlight, Putin’s move is seen as an attempt to position himself as a peacemaker to audiences in the U.S. who may support a different approach to Ukraine.
As both Russia and Ukraine continue to blame each other for broken truces and rising tensions, calls grow louder for a truly lasting peace. But for now, many in Kyiv believe this latest ceasefire is not a step toward ending the war — just another attempt by Moscow to shift the story in its favor.