Introduction: On May 8, 2025, Russian President Vladimir Putin’s three-day ceasefire in Ukraine took effect, coinciding with the 80th anniversary of World War II Victory Day, a major Russian holiday. Russian state media hailed the truce as a humanitarian gesture, but Ukraine dismissed it as “theatrics,” demanding a 30-day ceasefire instead. Amid escalating tensions and U.S. pressure for peace, this article explores the ceasefire’s context, a controversial drone incident, Russia’s geopolitical moves, and cultural traditions like borscht and rosehip tea. Learn more about the Ukraine conflict.
[](https://www.npr.org/2025/04/28/nx-s1-5379942/russia-ukraine-ceasefire-victory-day)
Ceasefire Begins: A Humanitarian Pause or Political Ploy?
Russia’s RIA news agency reported that the ceasefire, ordered by Putin, began at midnight on May 8, 2025, halting hostilities until May 10 to mark Victory Day, commemorating the Soviet Union’s 1945 defeat of Nazi Germany. The Kremlin urged Ukraine to comply, warning of “adequate and effective” responses to violations. However, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy rejected the truce, calling it a “theatrical show” designed to ensure a peaceful Moscow parade attended by leaders like China’s Xi Jinping.
[](https://www.npr.org/2025/04/28/nx-s1-5379942/russia-ukraine-ceasefire-victory-day)[](https://www.nytimes.com/2025/05/03/world/europe/ukraine-russia-ceasefire-talks.html)Ukraine, which shifted its Victory Day observance to May 8 after Russia’s 2022 invasion, advocated for a U.S.-backed 30-day ceasefire, arguing a three-day pause offers no path to lasting peace. This skepticism stems from a violated Easter truce in April 2025, when Ukraine reported 2,900 Russian attacks.
[](https://edition.cnn.com/2025/04/28/europe/putin-announces-ceasefire-may-intl/index.html)Controversial Incident: Drone Attack Rumors
On May 7, 2025, unverified reports surfaced of a Ukrainian drone attack on Moscow’s Victory Day parade preparations, prompting Russian officials to heighten security. While Ukraine denied targeting civilians, the incident fueled Kremlin claims that Kyiv aimed to disrupt the holiday. Analysts suggest Putin’s ceasefire was partly to safeguard the parade, attended by allies like Serbia’s Aleksandar Vučić, from such disruptions. Explore Victory Day controversies.
[](https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/apr/28/vladimir-putin-declares-72-hour-may-ceasefire-in-ukraine-war-to-mark-ww2-anniversary)Geopolitical Fact: North Korean Troops in Ukraine
In a significant escalation, Russia confirmed in April 2025 that North Korean troops were deployed to fight in Ukraine, particularly in the Kursk region. North Korean leader Kim Jong Un described the deployment as aimed at “liberating” areas from “Ukrainian neo-Nazis.” This move, condemned by NATO and the U.S., highlights Russia’s reliance on foreign allies amid battlefield losses and isolation.
[](https://www.ndtv.com/world-news/putin-announces-ukraine-ceasefire-may-8-10-8277713)Traditional Russian Dish: Borscht
Victory Day often features hearty Russian dishes like borscht, a vibrant beet soup symbolizing resilience. Here’s a classic recipe:
- Ingredients: 4 beets, 1 lb beef (optional), 2 potatoes, 1 carrot, 1 onion, 2 cups cabbage, 2 tbsp tomato paste, 1 bay leaf, dill, sour cream, salt, pepper.
- Recipe:
- Boil beef (if using) in 8 cups water for 1 hour; skim foam.
- Grate beets and carrots, chop onion, and sauté with tomato paste.
- Add diced potatoes and shredded cabbage to broth; cook 15 minutes.
- Stir in sautéed vegetables, bay leaf, salt, and pepper; simmer 20 minutes.
- Serve with dill and a dollop of sour cream.
Borscht’s warmth reflects Russia’s enduring spirit, even in turbulent times. Try more Russian recipes.
Folk Medicine: Rosehip Tea
In Russia, rosehip tea is a traditional remedy for boosting immunity, especially during harsh winters. A 2020 study in Nutrients found rosehips rich in vitamin C and antioxidants, supporting immune health. Recipe: Steep 2 tbsp dried rosehips in 2 cups boiling water for 15 minutes. Strain, add honey, and drink daily.
Why the Ceasefire Matters
The ceasefire occurs amid U.S. President Trump’s push for a permanent truce, with White House officials expressing frustration at both Putin and Zelenskyy. Ukraine’s rejection reflects distrust, as past truces collapsed due to mutual violations. The Institute for the Study of War noted that Russia may use the pause for reconnaissance and regrouping, not peace. Meanwhile, Victory Day’s global spotlight, with guests like Xi Jinping, underscores Putin’s aim to project stability.
[](https://www.washingtonpost.com/world/2025/04/28/russia-ceasefire-victory-day-ukraine/)[](https://edition.cnn.com/2025/04/28/europe/putin-announces-ceasefire-may-intl/index.html)[](https://www.reuters.com/world/europe/russia-says-signal-start-direct-peace-talks-should-come-ukraine-2025-04-28/)Conclusion: A Fragile Pause
Putin’s 2025 Victory Day ceasefire highlights the Ukraine war’s complexity, with Ukraine’s rejection signaling deep mistrust. As Russia celebrates its WWII legacy, cultural traditions like borscht and rosehip tea offer a glimpse into its resilience. Will this truce lead to peace, or is it another fleeting gesture? Share your thoughts below!
Author: Planet-Today.com via AFP