ISTANBUL

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Monday declared a unilateral ceasefire in Ukraine, as Moscow is set to mark the 80th anniversary of the Soviet Union’s victory over Nazi Germany during World War II.

A statement by the Kremlin said that Putin ordered a cessation of all military actions in Ukraine from midnight on May 7-8 to midnight on May 10-11.

“Russia believes that the Ukrainian side should follow this example,” the statement said, noting that Moscow will give “an adequate and effective response” if the ceasefire is violated by Ukraine.

“The Russian side once again declares its readiness for peace talks without preconditions, aimed at eliminating the root causes of the Ukrainian crisis, and constructive interaction with international partners,” it added.

Ukraine has not yet reacted to the decision.