Moscow (TDI): Russia has announced a temporary ceasefire with Ukraine for May 8–9, timed to coincide with the country’s Victory Day commemorations marking the Soviet Union’s role in World War II.
In a statement posted on Telegram, Russia’s Defense Ministry said the pause in fighting is intended to honour the “victory of the Soviet people in the Great Patriotic War” and said it hopes Ukraine will also observe the ceasefire.
The ministry added that Russian forces would take “all necessary measures” to ensure security during the celebrations.
It also referenced Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s statement, claiming the comments included threats to target Moscow during the May 9 events.
Russia warned that if Ukraine attempts to disrupt the Victory Day commemorations, its armed forces would respond with what it described as a “massive retaliatory missile strike” on Kyiv.
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It further stated that such action had previously been avoided for “humanitarian reasons,” and advised civilians in Kyiv, as well as foreign diplomatic staff, to leave the city if necessary.
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The announcement comes amid ongoing fighting between the two countries, with no formal confirmation yet from Ukrainian authorities regarding Russia’s declared ceasefire.
