KYIV, Ukraine — Tensions between Ukraine and Russia intensified over conflicting ceasefire proposals. Moscow accused Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy of jeopardizing the safety of dignitaries scheduled to attend Victory Day events, following his rejection of Russia’s suggested 72-hour truce.
Instead of a brief pause, Zelenskyy called for a more substantial 30-day cessation of hostilities, aligning with an earlier US suggestion. He proposed that such a ceasefire be implemented as a progressive step toward resolving the ongoing three-year conflict. “Let’s be honest — serious agreements can’t materialize in just three, five, or seven days,” he pointed out.
Zelenskyy criticized Moscow’s brief ceasefire announcement for next week, set to coincide with Victory Day commemorations of World War II, as merely a gesture to foster a cordial environment for Russia’s celebrations. “It lacks seriousness,” he noted, “to make sure Putin’s guests at Red Square feel at ease and secure.”
Ukraine stated that it cannot guarantee the safety of foreign dignitaries planning to visit Russia around May 9, expressing concern that Moscow might orchestrate provocations to later blame Ukraine.
Zelenskyy disclosed that some governments had enquired about security assurances for their visiting delegations in Russia, but clarified Ukraine’s stance: “We cannot assume responsibility for events transpiring on Russian soil. They are responsible for your security; thus we provide no guarantees.”
Zelenskyy instructed Ukraine’s Foreign Ministry to advise against visiting Russia during this time, highlighting potential security risks. “Our advice is simple: avoid visiting the Russian Federation. Should you decide otherwise, the responsibility is yours,” he said.
The Ukrainian President reiterated that Kyiv’s military responses would mirror Russia’s actions. While acknowledging the challenges in implementing a full front-line ceasefire without comprehensive international oversight, he insisted the proposed 30-day ceasefire offers a feasible pathway.
He confirmed active efforts to organize the next round of negotiations with the US, expressing optimism that they may occur in Ukraine, considering it a “positive sign” despite recent changes in Washington’s administration.
In reaction to Zelenskyy’s comments, Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova claimed that his statements posed a direct threat to world leaders intending to visit Moscow on May 9.
Dmitry Medvedev, a senior member of Russia’s Security Council, warned that Kyiv’s security would not be guaranteed if Ukraine were to provoke Moscow’s celebrations. He ominously noted, “Following provocation on Victory Day, Kyiv should not expect May 10 to dawn peacefully.”
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov stated that Russia anticipates concrete steps from Kyiv towards de-escalation ahead of Victory Day.
Russia views its ceasefire proposals as a litmus test for Ukraine’s willingness to engage in discussions towards lasting peace.
Meanwhile, Russia executed a drone strike on Kharkiv, Ukraine’s second-largest city, injuring 47 people and prompting Zelenskyy to call for decisive support from allies.
Kharkiv Mayor Ihor Terekhov reported drones targeting multiple city sites, including residential areas and infrastructure. The Prosecutor’s Office stated the use of thermobaric warheads, known for causing extensive damage, suggesting a possible violation of international humanitarian standards.
“Amidst global hesitation, nights in Ukraine remain perilously unpredictable, claiming lives. We require bolstered air defense and resolute action from our partners,” Zelenskyy urged.
Ukraine’s air force indicated that 77 out of 183 Russian drones and decoys were intercepted overnight, with others likely disrupted electronically. Russia launched additional ballistic missiles during the attack.
Simultaneously, Russia’s Defense Ministry declared its air defenses had downed 170 Ukrainian drones, intercepting several missiles.
In southern Russia, a drone strike on Novorossiysk injured five people, including two children, as reported by Mayor Andrey Kravchenko.
This surge in attacks follows the US and Ukraine finalizing an agreement granting the US access to Ukraine’s mineral resources, paving the way for ongoing military assistance amid concerns regarding President Donald Trump’s commitment to sustaining support in peace talks with Russia.