President Donald Trump says the leaders of Russia and Ukraine have agreed to his request for a three-day ceasefire and an exchange of prisoners. Trump said Friday that such a halt to hostilities could be the "beginning of the end" of the long war between them. Trump announced on social media that the ceasefire would run Saturday through Monday. Saturday is Victory Day in Russia, a holiday that commemorates its victory over Nazi Germany 81 years ago in World War II. Trump says he's "pleased to announce that there will be a THREE DAY CEASEFIRE." The Republican president says the ceasefire includes a suspension of all kinetic activity and the exchange of 1,000 prisoners by each country.
Russia's Defense Ministry reports that air defenses shot down 347 Ukrainian drones overnight. This major attack comes after Moscow rejected Kyiv's ceasefire earlier in the week. Drones were destroyed in over 20 Russian regions, including Moscow. The attack is Ukraine's second-biggest aerial assault since Russia's invasion over four years ago. It occurred ahead of Russia's Victory Day celebrations, marking the defeat of Nazi Germany in World War II. Tensions have risen as the celebrations approach, with Russia scaling back its traditional military parade due to security concerns. Authorities blame Ukraine for the heightened security measures.
Russia's Defense Ministry has declared a unilateral ceasefire in Ukraine to mark Victory Day, commemorating the defeat of Nazi Germany in World War II. The ceasefire is set for Friday and Saturday. The ministry warns of a massive missile strike on Kyiv if Ukrainian forces disrupt the celebrations. This announcement comes as Ukraine has been launching drone attacks deep inside Russia. The traditional military parade in Moscow will be pared down due to security concerns. Victory Day has been a key pillar of President Vladimir Putin's tenure, showcasing military might and patriotic pride.
