Russia May Seek Ceasefire Deal with US on May 9, According to Estonian Defense Minister

Brussels – April 11, 2025

Estonian Defense Minister Hanno Pevkur has suggested that Russia may attempt to negotiate a ceasefire with the United States around May 9, a date that holds significant cultural importance for Russia as it commemorates its victory in World War II. Pevkur made these remarks during a press briefing at NATO headquarters in Brussels, highlighting the Kremlin's historical tendency to attach significance to particular dates.

“Consider February 24, which marks the start of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine. The day before, February 23, is celebrated as the day of the Russian Army. Historically, specific dates play a crucial role in the Kremlin's strategic considerations,” Pevkur stated. He speculated that this emphasis on important dates could mean that Russia will strive to secure some form of agreement, potentially a ceasefire, around May 9. This news comes amid ongoing efforts by U.S. President Donald Trump to negotiate a ceasefire and a broader peace agreement aimed at ending the hostilities in Ukraine. Despite these efforts, Moscow previously rejected a proposed 30-day truce brokered by Washington and Kyiv. Furthermore, a partial ceasefire concerning strikes on energy facilities has not been effective in halting continued assaults on Ukraine.

Minister Pevkur also pointed out that a potential negotiation deadline on May 9 should encourage international partners of Ukraine to accelerate military assistance. His comments were made as representatives from approximately 40 countries convened in Brussels for the 27th meeting of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group. During this meeting, allied nations pledged billions in additional support for Ukraine’s defense efforts.

As uncertainty looms over U.S. support under the Trump administration, European leaders are keen to reaffirm their commitment to Ukraine. This is especially important as the U.S. publicly deliberates its next steps regarding assistance to Ukraine.

In a related development, a gathering of what is referred to as the "coalition of the willing" occurred in Brussels a day prior, led by the United Kingdom and France. This informal group is focused on providing Ukraine with post-war security guarantees, which may include the potential deployment of peacekeeping troops. Minister Pevkur expressed his support for this initiative but cautioned that it should not compromise the strength of NATO's eastern defenses.

The meeting, co-chaired by Germany and the U.K., is set to include U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky via video conference, as reported by German Defense Minister Boris Pistorius.

As discussions continue regarding military and diplomatic strategies, the prospect of a May 9 ceasefire negotiation is on the international agenda, with significant implications for the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

For ongoing coverage and developments, stay tuned to The Kyiv Independent.