**Russia May Seek Ceasefire Deal with US on WWII Victory Day**
Estonian Defense Minister Hanno Pevkur has made a bold prediction, stating that Russia may attempt to strike a ceasefire deal with the United States on May 9, which is celebrated as Victory in World War II Day in Moscow. According to Pevkur, this move would be a strategic one for the Kremlin, leveraging a significant date in Russian history to secure some kind of agreement.
Pevkur’s comments were made at a press conference in Brussels, where representatives from over 40 countries gathered for the 27th meeting of the Ukraine Defense Contact Group. The Estonian defense chief emphasized that May 9 would be an important day for Russia to try and achieve a deal, as it is a deeply symbolic date in their calendar.
**The Significance of May 9**
For Russia, May 9 marks the end of World War II, a pivotal moment in their history. In contrast, Pevkur noted that this date holds little significance for Europe, which celebrates its own victory on VE Day, May 8. This difference in perspective may lead to a renewed push by Moscow to secure some kind of agreement with Washington.
**Trump‘s Ceasefire Efforts**
The United States has been actively seeking to broker a ceasefire and broader peace deal to end Russia’s war against Ukraine. However, these efforts have been met with resistance from Moscow, which has rejected a proposed 30-day truce agreed upon by the US and Ukrainian governments. A partial ceasefire on strikes against energy facilities has also failed to prevent continued attacks.
**Ukraine’s Allies Step Up Support**
As tensions escalate, Ukraine’s partners are increasing their support for the embattled country. Representatives from some 40 countries met in Brussels to discuss additional military aid, with promises of “billions” in further assistance. European leaders will likely reassure Ukrainian Defense Minister Rustem Umerov about their continued commitment, as US support grows increasingly uncertain under the Trump administration.
**NATO’s Eastern Frontier and Ukraine’s Security**
Estonia’s defense chief voiced support for a post-war security initiative led by the UK and France, which aims to provide Ukraine with guarantees, including potential peacekeeping troops. However, Pevkur emphasized that this should not come at the expense of weakening NATO’s eastern frontier, a critical concern for countries bordering Russia.
**What’s Next?**
The situation remains fluid as diplomatic efforts continue to unfold. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether Moscow follows through on its potential ceasefire push and what implications this may have for Ukraine and the international community.