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This is the world in brief from The Economist.

Our top stories. Donald Trump announced a three-day ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine, beginning on Saturday.

During this time, both sides will suspend strikes and each swap 1,000 prisoners,

America's president said. The pause comes as Russia prepares to celebrate Victory Day,

the anniversary of the Soviet Union's defeat of Nazi Germany. Moscow has toned down its annual parade amid fears of a Ukrainian attack.

Meanwhile, the Trump administration said it expected Iran to imminently respond to its proposal

to end the war. Marco Rubio, America's Secretary of State, expressed hope for entering a, quote, serious process of negotiation.

But Abbasarachi, Iran's foreign minister, accused America of putting, quote, a reckless military adventure over diplomacy.

On Friday, America said it disabled four ships trying to enter or leave Iranian ports.

Britain's ruling Labour Party conceded defeat in parliamentary elections in Wales. The Scottish

National Party declared victory in Scotland. Meanwhile, local elections in England saw Reform UK, a populist right party,

gained more than 1,200 seats.

Sakea Stama, Britain's Prime Minister, said he takes responsibility for the result,

which has seen his party suffer a drubbing.

Virginia's top court ruled 4 three against implementing a new congressional map

that voters approved last month. Under it, Democrats could have won up to four new seats

...