Brussels – International pressure to end the ongoing conflict in Ukraine has intensified.

In recent developments, Vladimir Putin announced a proposed three-day ceasefire from May 8 to May 11, suggesting that Kyiv should reciprocate.

The announcement follows increased calls for resolution, particularly from prominent figures like Donald Trump, who has expressed frustration over the stagnant peace negotiations.

Direct talks between Moscow and Kyiv may resume following a three-year hiatus, although significant uncertainties persist on both the battlefield and at the negotiating table.

Putin's announcement came in the early afternoon of April 28, when the Kremlin stated that the fighting would be suspended for humanitarian purposes, coinciding with the 80th anniversary of the Red Army's victory over Nazi Germany, known as the Great Patriotic War in Russia.

The proposed ceasefire includes the commemoration of Victory Day on May 9, featuring a grand ceremony in Moscow's Red Square, attended by international dignitaries such as Chinese leader Xi Jinping, Belarusian president Alexander Lukashenko, and Slovak premier Robert Fico.

The Kremlin emphasized the need to ensure safety during this event against potential Ukrainian drone attacks.

In a statement released via Telegram, the Kremlin warned that any violation of the ceasefire by Ukraine would result in a robust military response from Russian forces.

Putin reiterated Moscow's commitment to peace negotiations without preconditions, aiming to address the fundamental causes of the Ukrainian crisis and urging constructive engagement with international partners.

Responses from Kyiv have been measured.

Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrij Sybiha remarked that for Russia to demonstrate a genuine commitment to peace, it must implement an immediate ceasefire for a minimum of 30 days, thus criticizing the timing of the proposal, which he characterized as merely a strategic maneuver before a parade.

In Washington, the U.S. administration has reiterated the necessity for a permanent ceasefire.

White House spokeswoman Karoline Leavitt confirmed that Trump is optimistic about the prospects for an agreement while expressing frustration over the lack of progress from both parties involved in the conflict.

After a recent return from the Vatican, where he met Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at Pope Francis' funeral on April 26, Trump urged Putin to refrain from further military actions and engage in negotiations.

Trump emphasized the need for a cessation of hostilities and urged both sides to formalize an agreement, stating that they are close to resolving the major points of contention.

Central to the disagreement between Moscow and Kyiv remains the issue of territorial claims.

Russia's Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov has reiterated that international recognition of Russia’s claims over Crimea and parts of the Luhansk, Donetsk, Zaporizhia, and Kherson regions will be crucial in any peace discussions.

Trump, following his discussions with Zelensky, expressed a belief that Ukraine might yield territory, particularly Crimea, which has been under Russian control since 2014.

For Ukraine, formal acknowledgment of the occupied regions remains a red line politically and legally, necessitating potential constitutional amendments and a public referendum, which would likely face significant opposition.

Analysts suggest that Kyiv may consider a temporary, informal recognition of the occupation as a pragmatic approach, contingent upon an unconditional ceasefire effectively halting fighting across land, air, and sea.

Ukraine's peace proposal reportedly includes the removal of limitations on the size of its armed forces and a European military presence to ensure security.

This proposal is part of efforts led by international leaders such as Emmanuel Macron and Keir Starmer to establish a coalition aimed at support for Ukraine.

The U.S. has indicated a willingness to provide logistical support and intelligence to a European contingent involved in the conflict.

Negotiations regarding critical Ukrainian raw materials are reportedly nearing completion, following extensive discussions between Washington and Kyiv.

Ukrainian Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal affirmed that the forthcoming agreement would not backtrack on commitments made regarding free competition with European firms traveling towards EU accession.

Marco Rubio, U.S. Secretary of State, characterized the upcoming week as pivotal for resolving the standoff.

The White House will monitor the actions of both parties to determine their commitment to achieving peace.

Putin's openness to direct talks with Ukrainian leadership signifies a potential shift in diplomatic relations, although various challenges remain, especially concerning territorial issues.

Recent reports suggest that Russian military operations may also involve support from North Korean forces, as confirmed by both Moscow and Pyongyang, signaling broader geopolitical implications in the ongoing conflict.