The Russian Ministry of Defence said that Vladimir Putin had decided to call a ceasefire on 8 and 9 May to mark Victory Day. At the same time, the Russian side threatened to strike Kyiv in case of attempts to disrupt the ceasefire and called on civilians and diplomats to leave the city.
Putin announces ceasefire for 8-9 May
According to the information Ministry of Defence of the Russian Federation, On 8 May, Russian President Vladimir Putin decided to declare a ceasefire for the period from 8 to 9 May. This is due to preparations for the Victory Day celebrations, which are traditionally held in Russia. According to the ministry, this decision should ensure «safe celebrations» in the temporarily occupied territories and in Russia itself.
The statement clarifies that the ceasefire will be temporary and does not apply to strategic areas, unless there are provocations by Ukraine.
Russian Federation threatens to strike Kyiv if ceasefire breaks down
The Russian Ministry of Defence also made a number of harsh statements about Kyiv. In particular, the Russian side threatened to strike at the centre of the Ukrainian capital if the Ukrainian side tries to break the declared ceasefire or prevent the 9 May parade. The statement said that any attempts to interfere with the celebrations would be considered a «direct threat» and would receive an «immediate response».
Such statements are made in the context of heightened tension around the date, which has a symbolic meaning for the Russian authorities. Previous years have seen the use of holidays for political and military messages.
Warning for civilians and diplomats in Kyiv
In addition to the threats, the Russian Ministry of Defence has called on civilians and diplomats to leave Kyiv if an attempt is made to disrupt the 9 May parade. The statement notes that this warning applies not only to Ukrainian citizens, but also to foreign missions that remain in the capital.
This creates additional tension for Kyiv residents and international organisations operating in the city. Such warnings may affect security and evacuation decisions for the holiday period.
Why it matters
Statement on ceasefire on 8-9 May has not only military but also political implications. It demonstrates an attempt to use symbolic dates to shape its own agenda in the international arena. At the same time, the ultimatum warnings against Kyiv indicate the Kremlin's intention to put pressure on Ukraine and its Western partners.
For the Ukrainian authorities and residents of the capital, such statements mean an increase in risks on days that could be used for provocations. The international community is closely monitoring the developments, as any violation of the ceasefire could have serious security implications for the region.
