A three-day ceasefire declared by Russia began early Thursday, bringing a rare calm to skies over major Ukrainian cities after nights of heavy drone and missile attacks. However, Ukraine’s air force reported two Russian guided bomb strikes in the Sumy region shortly after the ceasefire started, though no damage was confirmed.
The ceasefire coincides with Russia’s May 9 Victory Day celebrations marking the defeat of Nazi Germany. President Vladimir Putin is hosting Chinese President Xi Jinping and other dignitaries in Moscow and will oversee the traditional military parade in Red Square.
Ukraine has rejected the ceasefire as a propaganda move by the Kremlin, maintaining that Russia continues offensive operations. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy reiterated his country’s offer for a 30-day ceasefire, originally proposed by the U.S. in March, noting that Russia has yet to respond meaningfully and instead continues to launch attacks.
Despite the Kremlin’s announcement, Ukraine has carried out several drone strikes on Moscow in recent days, prompting airport closures and heightened security. Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin reported 14 drones were intercepted or destroyed just hours before the ceasefire began.
While Kyiv remained quiet early Thursday, it was unclear if fighting had paused along the frontlines. A Reuters reporter near eastern combat zones noted no active shelling during the early hours.
Zelenskiy stated it was “fair” that Russian skies face similar unrest, pointing to ongoing drone attacks as symbolic retribution. Meanwhile, Russia blamed Kyiv for resisting ceasefire negotiations, with Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova accusing Ukraine of breaking past agreements.
As international calls for peace grow louder, including pressure from U.S. President Donald Trump, the path to a lasting ceasefire remains uncertain amid continued strikes and political distrust.