Russia declares Ukrainian cross border incursions frustrated in Victory Day truce

(MENAFN) The Russian Defense Ministry has reported that two attempted incursions by Ukrainian forces into the Kursk Region were repelled during the 72-hour Victory Day ceasefire announced by President Vladimir Putin. The truce, intended as a humanitarian gesture to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the Soviet victory over Nazi Germany, began at midnight on May 7–8 and is set to end at midnight on May 10–11.

Despite the ceasefire, Ukraine launched extensive attacks, including an assault near Dzerzhinsk (Toretsk in Ukraine), according to the ministry. Since the truce began, Russia claims Ukraine has carried out 488 attacks, involving artillery, tanks, mortars, multiple rocket launchers, and approximately 300 FPV drone strikes.

The Russian military accused Kiev of deliberately trying to sabotage peace efforts, stating that Ukraine’s actions “confirm the desire... to prevent a peaceful settlement” of the conflict. The ministry emphasized that Russian forces are fully complying with the ceasefire order and have refrained from launching airstrikes, missile attacks, or drone operations, responding only when provoked.

President Putin had expressed hope that the ceasefire could open the door to negotiations with Ukraine, without preconditions. However, Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky rejected the truce, calling it a manipulative tactic. In response, Ukraine intensified its drone campaign, with Russia reporting a record 524 UAVs shot down on Wednesday alone.

Despite ongoing provocations, Moscow reiterated its commitment to honoring the ceasefire.

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