Moscow warns Kiev after drone interceptions
Russia announced that its air defense systems intercepted multiple drones heading toward Moscow shortly after the Kremlin declared a unilateral two-day ceasefire surrounding World War II Victory Day celebrations. Despite the temporary truce, tensions between Moscow and Kiev continued escalating as both sides exchanged warnings and accusations.
Russia’s defense ministry stated that its forces destroyed nearly 350 Ukrainian drones overnight. Additionally, Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin reported that air defense systems intercepted another 20 drones within hours after the ceasefire officially began.
Meanwhile, the Russian defense ministry warned civilians and foreign diplomats to leave Kiev, citing the possibility of retaliatory strikes if Ukraine attacked during the ceasefire period. Authorities stressed that Russia would respond “in kind” to any military action carried out by Ukrainian forces.
At the same time, Moscow claimed it would completely halt frontline combat operations and suspend long-range strikes against military infrastructure during the truce.
Zelenskyy criticizes ceasefire and parade plans
However, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy dismissed the temporary ceasefire as a political maneuver designed to secure Russia’s annual Victory Day parade in Moscow. He accused Russia of using the truce for propaganda purposes while continuing military operations against Ukraine.
Furthermore, Zelenskyy warned allied nations against attending Friday’s military parade in Red Square. He said Ukraine could not guarantee the safety of foreign representatives visiting Moscow during the ongoing conflict.
In recent weeks, Ukraine has intensified long-range drone attacks deep inside Russian territory, increasing security concerns ahead of the parade. Consequently, Russian authorities reduced public festivities, limited military hardware displays, and imposed intermittent internet shutdowns across Moscow.
Although diplomatic efforts to end the war continue, negotiations remain stalled as Moscow insists Ukraine withdraw from territories claimed by Russia, conditions Kiev firmly rejects.
