Russia and Ukraine accuse each other of violating Victory Day ceasefire

Ceasefire tensions continue

Russia and Ukraine have accused each other of violating a temporary ceasefire announced by Moscow for Victory Day commemorations marking the Soviet Union’s victory over Nazi Germany in World War II.

The Kremlin said Russian air defence systems intercepted 264 Ukrainian drones early Friday, including attempted strikes near Moscow and the Perm region. Russian authorities also confirmed that operations at 13 airports in southern Russia were temporarily suspended due to drone attacks.

According to Russia’s transport ministry, a drone strike hit an administrative building connected to air traffic operations in southern Russia, although no casualties were reported.

Ukraine reports ongoing attacks

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Russian attacks continued overnight despite the ceasefire announcement. He stated that Russian forces carried out more than 140 attacks on frontline positions and launched hundreds of drone strikes.

Zelenskyy said Ukraine would continue responding to Russian attacks and defend its territory and civilians. Ukraine also claimed responsibility for striking an oil facility in Russia’s Yaroslavl region, describing it as retaliation for attacks on Ukrainian cities.

Kyiv had earlier proposed a broader and open-ended ceasefire beginning May 6, but Russia did not accept the proposal.

Victory Day overshadowed by conflict

The ceasefire was announced to coincide with Russia’s annual Victory Day celebrations, which honour the Soviet Union’s role in defeating Nazi Germany during World War II.

Russian authorities had warned of severe retaliation if the commemorations were disrupted. Meanwhile, Zelenskyy criticised Moscow for using the ceasefire mainly to secure the safety of military celebrations while fighting continued elsewhere.

The ongoing accusations and attacks highlight the fragile nature of any temporary truce as the war between Russia and Ukraine continues with no immediate sign of a broader peace agreement.