Russia and Ukraine Ceasefire Ahead of Victory Day

A Ukrainian drone hit a high-end residential building in Moscow on Monday, causing damage but no casualties, just days before Russia's Victory Day celebrations. This was the third consecutive night Moscow was attacked by drones. The Russian defense ministry reported intercepting 117 drones across several regions. The Kremlin has scaled back its Victory Day parade due to a perceived 'terrorist threat' from Ukraine and announced a unilateral ceasefire on May 8-9. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky dismissed the ceasefire as 'not serious' and vowed to continue pressure. Meanwhile, Russia continues its aerial attacks on Ukrainian cities, killing four and injuring 18 near Kharkiv on Monday.

Russia and Ukraine have declared separate ceasefires ahead of Russia's World War II Victory Day commemorations on May 9. Russian President Vladimir Putin proposed a short-term truce last week, and the Russian defense ministry announced a unilateral ceasefire from May 8-9, warning of a 'massive missile strike' on Kyiv if Ukraine violates it. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy responded by announcing his own ceasefire starting on May 5-6, stating that human life is more valuable than any anniversary celebration. Zelenskyy also criticized Russia's intentions, suggesting that they should take real steps to end the war.

Russia has declared a unilateral ceasefire in Ukraine for Friday and Saturday to mark the 81st anniversary of the defeat of Nazi Germany in World War II, known as Victory Day. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy responded by saying his country would observe a truce beginning at 12 a.m. on Wednesday. Russia's Defense Ministry threatened to strike back at Kyiv if it tries to disrupt the Victory Day festivities, warning civilians to leave the city. The ceasefire is part of Russia's preparations for its most important secular holiday, which includes a military parade on Moscow's Red Square. However, this year's parade will be scaled down due to concerns over possible Ukrainian attacks.