Donald Trump announces a three-day ceasefire in Russia-Ukraine war as he says peace is 'closer every day'

Donald Trump has announced a three-day ceasefire between Ukraine and Russia.The US President took to social media to announce the truce would come into force this Saturday, May 9.

Both countries intend to celebrate Victory Day on May 9 to commemorate the defeat of Nazi Germany in 1945.

Russia suffered an estimated 26 million casualties on the Eastern Front of World War II.

The US President wrote: "I am pleased to announce that there will be a three-day ceasefire (May 9th, 10th, and 11th) in the War between Russia and Ukraine.

"The Celebration in Russia is for Victory Day but, likewise, in Ukraine, because they were also a big part and factor of World War II.

"This Ceasefire will include a suspension of all kinetic activity, and also a prison swap of 1,000 prisoners from each Country.

"This request was made directly by me, and I very much appreciate its agreement by President Vladimir Putin and President Volodymyr Zelenskyy."

Mr Trump added: "Hopefully, it is the beginning of the end of a very long, deadly, and hard fought War.

"Talks are continuing on ending this Major Conflict, the biggest since World War II, and we are getting closer and closer every day. Thank you for your attention to this matter! President DONALD J. TRUMP."

Russia launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine on February 24 2022.

Kyiv and Moscow have previously agreed to a weekend ceasefire; however, both sides have accused each other of violating it.

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Ukraine accused Moscow of carrying out over 1,800 violations, including missile strikes.

The front line has remained largely static for years.

Russia sent a stark warning to Ukraine not to try to attack the Victory Day parade in Red Square.

Its defence ministry has threatened to launch a "retaliatory, massive missile strike" on the centre of Kyiv if Moscow is attacked.

Kremlin bosses told diplomatic missions from all countries to evacuate their staff in Kyiv in the event of a mass strike by Moscow.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Friday that there have been 140 attacks on Ukrainian positions in the first few hours of the truce, and more than 850 drone strikes.

He said: "All of this clearly indicates that there was not even a simulated attempt from the Russian side to cease fire at the front."

"Just like in the results of the past day, Ukraine will act in kind today."

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