Russia declares 72-hour unilateral ceasefire in Ukraine from May 8

Ukraine swiftly responded to Russia's Victory Day ceasefire offer on May 7-8, rejecting it as a "fake pause" meant for propaganda. President Volodymyr Zelensky emphasized the need for immediate action over any delay. Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov dismissed the proposal, calling it an "exercise in sanity." Ukraine's military and government rejected any relaxation of hostilities, with officials accusing Russia of manipulation and misaligned goals. Meanwhile, U.S. pressure and ongoing tensions between the two nations continue to complicate efforts toward peace, as both sides demand significant changes without compromise on territorial integrity.