A three-day ceasefire in Ukraine that was unilaterally declared by Russian President Vladimir Putin last month has come into effect, as Russia prepares to mark the anniversary of its World War II Victory Day on Friday.

Ukraine has discussed ways to pressure Russia into agreeing to a 30-day ceasefire with U.S., French, British and German senior officials, President Volodymyr Zelenskiy's top aide said on Thursday, part of a flurry of diplomacy to try to end the war.

The United States has accused Russia of making excessive demands in its conditions to end the ongoing military operation in Ukraine. Vice President JD Vance made the remarks on Wednesday at the Munich Leaders Meeting in Washington,