Russia announces ceasefire in Ukraine war during Victory Day celebrations

Russia has announced a temporary ceasefire in its ongoing war with Ukraine from May 8 to May 10 during celebrations commemorating the 81st anniversary of the Soviet Union’s victory in World War II.

The announcement was made by the Russian Defence Ministry following a decision by President Vladimir Putin.

According to Russian authorities, the ceasefire will remain in effect throughout the Victory Day celebrations, one of Russia’s most significant national events, observed annually on May 9.

The development comes amid heightened security concerns in Moscow ahead of the traditional military parade at Red Square.

Earlier, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, while addressing a summit in Yerevan, suggested that Russia may avoid showcasing heavy military equipment during the Victory Day parade because of fears of possible drone attacks targeting Moscow.

Victory Day commemorates the Soviet Union’s triumph over Nazi Germany in World War II and is marked with large-scale military parades, patriotic events and public ceremonies across Russia.

The Russia-Ukraine war, which began in February 2022, has continued with intense fighting, missile strikes and drone attacks across multiple regions despite several international calls for peace negotiations and ceasefires.

So far, there has been no official confirmation from Ukraine on whether it will observe the temporary ceasefire announced by Moscow.