Tensions are rising again between Russia and Ukraine, with competing ceasefire announcements that could spark a new escalation. Moscow’s Defence Ministry said Russian forces will observe a unilateral ceasefire on May 8-9 to coincide with Victory Day, which commemorates the Soviet defeat of Nazi Germany. The ministry wrote on the platform Max that “in accordance with a decision by the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation, Vladimir Putin, a ceasefire has been ordered from May 8 to May 9.”

The statement was accompanied by a warning that Russia would launch a “massive missile strike” on Kyiv if Ukraine violated the unilateral ceasefire. “If the Kyiv regime attempts to carry out its criminal plans to disrupt the 81st anniversary Victory Day commemorations of the Great Patriotic War, the Russian armed forces will launch a massive retaliatory missile strike on central Kyiv,” the Defence Ministry added.

In response, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky announced an immediate initiative, declaring a ceasefire beginning at midnight between May 5 and 6. Writing on X, he said Ukraine had not received any official proposal about how hostilities should be suspended, contrary to claims on Russian social media. “We believe human life is worth far more than any anniversary celebration. Accordingly, we announce a ceasefire starting at midnight between May 5 and 6,” he wrote.

He added that it is realistic to ensure silence in the interval before the ceasefire takes effect and that Ukraine would act reciprocally thereafter. “It is time for Russian leaders to take concrete steps to end the war,” he said, noting that the Russian Defence Ministry has suggested it cannot hold a parade in Moscow without Ukraine’s cooperation.

Read also