Russia confirmed that it will begin a temporary ceasefire for Victory Day, but also warned that it will hit back if Ukraine continues its military actions. The truce will be in effect from May 8 to May 10.

Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov told reporters, “President (Vladimir) Putin’s initiative for a temporary ceasefire” remains in place. However, he also warned that “an adequate response will be given immediately” if Ukraine fails to stop its operations during that period.

Zelenskyy Doubts Russia Will Respect the Truce

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy dismissed the idea that Russia will honour the ceasefire. He called for a longer halt in fighting instead.

“This is not the first challenge, nor are these the first promises made by Russia to cease fire,” Zelenskyy said during a joint press conference with Czech President Petr Pavel. “We understand who we are dealing with, we do not believe them,” he added. Zelenskyy was visiting Prague for two days, accompanied by his wife.

He also pointed out that despite Moscow’s talk of a partial ceasefire, Russian attacks have only increased. “Today and all these days they are talking about wanting some kind of partial ceasefire, but you should know, for example, that the number of assaults today is the highest in recent months,” he said.

Drone Attacks Hit Moscow Days Before Victory Parade

Just three days before Russia’s Victory Day parade in Red Square, Ukraine launched a series of drone attacks on Moscow. These strikes forced four major airports in the capital to shut down temporarily.

Moscow’s mayor, Sergei Sobyanin, stated that Russian air defences shot down 19 drones launched by Ukraine. “From different directions,” he said, referring to the attacks. He added that debris from the drones fell on key roads, but confirmed there were no injuries.

Putin Links War in Ukraine to WWII

President Putin continues to draw comparisons between the current war in Ukraine and the Soviet fight during World War II. He has used this narrative to justify Russia’s invasion, claiming in 2022 that his goal was to “de-Nazify” Ukraine.

Putin also criticizes the West for not recognising the Soviet Union’s role in defeating Nazi Germany. He often insists that the USSR was the main victor of the Second World War.