Trump Announces Three-Day Ceasefire Between Russia and Ukraine

Trump said he made the request directly and that both President Vladimir Putin and President Volodymyr Zelenskyy agreed. The announcement was posted on Trump's Truth Social account. He wrote that the ceasefire "hopefully is the beginning of the end of a very long, deadly, and hard fought War" and that talks are continuing on ending the major conflict.

Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine on Feb. 24, 2022. Previous short ceasefires have been agreed but both sides have accused each other of violations.

The Russia-Ukraine announcement arrived as U.S. forces continued military action against Iran in a separate conflict centered on the Strait of Hormuz. Over the past two days, U.S. More than 50 other vessels have been redirected by U.S. forces to enforce the blockade.

An explosion was reported in Iran's Sirik, near the strait, though the cause remains unknown. Oil prices rose following the exchange of fire between the U.S. and Iran. The Washington Post reported that the war in Iran and resulting closure of the strait have sent the global energy market into a frenzy, leading to higher prices for Americans.

Saudi officials were angered by President Trump's surprise announcement that the U.S. would begin guiding ships through the Strait of Hormuz, according to two U.S. officials who spoke to NBC News. The Saudis worried the move could spur more Iranian attacks on Gulf allies.

Iranian Statements and U.S.

" Iran's foreign minister described recent U.S. actions as a "reckless military adventure" while President Trump called the exchange of fire a "love tap" and stated the ceasefire with Iran remains in effect. President Trump has changed his approach to ending the war against Iran by prioritizing reopening the Strait of Hormuz at all costs and deferring negotiations on Tehran's nuclear and ballistic missile programs.

" Qatar's prime minister said there is a "high probability" the U.S. and Iran will reach a deal.

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

The Pentagon has begun releasing new UFO files under President Trump's push for maximum transparency, including videos, photos and reports of unexplained sightings. Some commentators suggested the timing could serve as a distraction from the Iran conflict.

The four-year Russia-Ukraine war has seen a largely static front line. Russia has warned against any attack on its Victory Day parade and threatened retaliation. The prisoner swap remains a long-standing priority for Ukraine. U.S. Footage circulated online showing a Super Hornet striking one of the vessels. The three tankers together are capable of carrying 5 million barrels of Iranian crude oil.