Zelenskyy advises against travelling to Moscow for 9 May parade

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has warned against travelling to Moscow for Russia’s 9 May Victory Day celebrations, amid ongoing hostilities between the two countries.

Zelenskyy said Ukraine had proposed a ceasefire to Russia, including from 6 May, but claimed Moscow had responded with new attacks and threats.

The President added Russia is attempting to ensure the peaceful staging of the 9 May events before resuming military operations afterwards. He added that there had already been statements suggesting possible strikes following the celebrations.

Zelensky also said several countries considered close to Russia were planning to send representatives to Moscow for the commemorations.

“We have received messages from some states close to Russia saying that their representatives intend to be in Moscow. It is a strange desire … We do not advise this,” Zelenskyy said.

Russia earlier announced another ceasefire from midnight on 8 May until 10 May. The Russian Defence Ministry stated that if the Ukrainian armed forces violated the truce or attempted strikes on populated areas and other facilities, Russia would take “appropriate retaliatory measures”.

Prior to that, Ukraine had announced a ceasefire beginning on 6 May. Zelenskyy has repeatedly accused Russia of violating ceasefire agreements and said Ukraine would determine its next steps independently.