US President Donald Trump has declared a three-day ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine, set to begin on May 9, which includes a suspension of hostilities and a prisoner exchange.

Context

The announcement comes amid ongoing hostilities, with both sides reporting new strikes prior to the ceasefire.S2S3

Key points

• The ceasefire is scheduled to last from May 9 to May 11.S1S4

• Trump stated that both Russia and Ukraine have agreed to halt fighting during this period.S2S5

• The ceasefire will include a suspension of all 'kinetic activity'.S1S4

• A prisoner swap of 1,000 individuals from each country is part of the agreement.S1S5

• The announcement was made via Trump's social media platform, Truth Social.S1

• Both sides have reported new strikes leading up to the ceasefire announcement.S2S3

• The ceasefire aims to provide a temporary respite in the ongoing conflict.S4

• This is the first significant ceasefire announcement in recent months.S5

Why it matters

• A ceasefire could provide a much-needed pause in hostilities, potentially allowing for humanitarian aid.S1

• The agreement on a prisoner swap may indicate a willingness from both sides to engage in dialogue.S4

• This announcement could influence international perceptions of the conflict and the involved leaders.S2

What to watch

• Monitor developments on the ground as the ceasefire date approaches.S3

• Watch for reactions from both Russian and Ukrainian officials regarding the ceasefire.S5

• Observe how the international community responds to this ceasefire announcement.S4