The two-day ceasefire announced by Russia ahead of Victory Day celebrations on May 8-9 has officially gone into effect. The Russian Defense Ministry has reiterated warnings that any attempt by Ukraine to disrupt events in Moscow would trigger a large-scale retaliatory strike on central Kiev.
According to a statement issued Thursday, Russian forces will suspend all frontline combat operations and halt long-range strikes into Ukrainian territory during the ceasefire period. Moscow also urged Ukraine to observe the truce.
The ministry warned that any attempts to violate the ceasefire, either along the front line or through long-range attacks, would be met with what it described as an “adequate response.”
The Russian Defense Ministry also renewed calls for foreign diplomats and civilians to leave Kiev ahead of any potential escalation.
“We once again urge the civilian population of Kiev and employees of foreign diplomatic missions to leave the city in a timely manner,” the ministry stated.
Uncertainty over Ukraine’s response
It remains unclear whether Ukraine will fully comply with the Moscow-proposed ceasefire.
Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky initially criticized the truce earlier this week, reportedly calling the two-day ceasefire “unfair” and claiming Kiev had not formally received a proposal.
Shortly afterward, however, Zelensky announced a ceasefire initiative of his own beginning at midnight on May 5-6, though Moscow did not publicly respond to that proposal.
Despite indications from media reports that combat intensity and long-range strikes have somewhat eased in recent days, Ukrainian officials have continued accusing Russia of ongoing attacks.
On Thursday, Zelensky accused Moscow of “not seriously considering the possibility of a ceasefire.”
Shortly after the Russian Defense Ministry issued its latest statement, Zelensky appeared to issue a warning regarding Moscow’s Victory Day parade.
“I would not recommend” that foreign dignitaries attend the celebrations, he reportedly stated.
Victory Day tensions remain high
Victory Day remains one of Russia’s most significant national commemorations, marking the Soviet Union’s victory over Nazi Germany in World War II.
Large military parades and ceremonies are expected in Moscow, including events at Red Square attended by senior Russian officials and invited foreign guests.
The ceasefire announcement comes amid continuing tensions between Moscow and Kiev as both sides continue accusing each other of undermining peace efforts while fighting persists across multiple sectors of the front.
Source: RT