Ukraine President Zelensky Condemns Russian Strikes Before Moscow’s Proposed 8 May Truce

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has condemned what he termed Russia's "utter cynicism" following deadly overnight attacks that killed five people and injured dozens across Ukraine. This occurred despite Moscow announcing a unilateral ceasefire for 8 and 9 May, coinciding with its Victory Day celebrations.

Kyiv, for its part, declared an open-ended ceasefire effective from midnight on 6 May, stating it would act "symmetrically" thereafter. Zelensky urged Russia to lay down arms and engage in "real diplomacy," asserting that "human life is of incomparably greater value than the 'celebration' of any anniversary."

Ukraine also conducted aerial attacks within Russia, targeting an industrial area in Kirishi, Leningrad region, and a military components factory in Cheboksary, Chuvash Republic. Zelensky claimed domestically-produced Flamingo cruise missiles were used in the Cheboksary strike, approximately 1,500km from the front line. Russia's defence ministry later reported downing six Flamingo missiles and 601 drones.

In Moscow, all three airports were temporarily closed, and four drones were reportedly downed near the capital. The Kremlin has signalled nervousness ahead of its 9 May Victory Day parade, scaling down the Red Square event due to a "terrorist threat" and omitting heavy military hardware. Mobile internet access in Moscow was also disrupted. Zelensky suggested Russia's inability to hold a full parade without Ukrainian goodwill indicated a need for Russian leaders to "take steps to end their war."

Ukrainian deep-strike drone attacks have escalated in recent weeks, targeting Russian energy facilities and oil refineries, disrupting oil trade. Meanwhile, Moscow's strikes continue to inflict civilian casualties across Ukraine, with thousands dead since the February 2022 invasion.