Tuesday, 02 January 2024 12:17 GMT

Russia Announces Brief Ceasefire with Ukraine Over Victory Day


(MENAFN) Russia has declared a temporary ceasefire in its conflict with Ukraine for May 8–9, stating it is intended to coincide with celebrations marking Victory Day, according to an announcement from the Russian Defense Ministry shared on Telegram.

The ministry said it hopes Ukraine will also observe the pause in fighting during this period and added that measures will be taken to ensure security for the commemorations. It referenced remarks attributed to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, which it interpreted as containing threats related to potential strikes on Moscow during the holiday period.

Russian officials warned that if Ukraine attempts to disrupt the celebrations, the military could respond with what they described as a large-scale retaliatory missile strike on Kyiv. They also claimed that civilians and foreign diplomatic personnel in the city should consider leaving for safety reasons.

Ukrainian authorities have not yet issued an official response to the announcement of the ceasefire.

Earlier, Zelenskyy said discussions involving the United States and Russia had taken place regarding a possible pause in hostilities around May 9, but he stated that Ukraine was not formally included in those talks and had not received any official proposal.

He also warned that Ukrainian drone operations could reach Moscow during the Victory Day period, when Russia holds annual military commemorations.

The developments come amid continued uncertainty over diplomatic efforts to reduce hostilities, with no confirmed agreement between the parties on a broader or lasting ceasefire, according to reports.

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