Ceasefire Violated as Russia Launches Fresh Airstrikes
Ceasefire Violated as Russia Launches Fresh Airstrikes
Ukraine reports a unilateral ceasefire met with a new wave of Russian airstrikes, including 89 drones and missiles hitting eight sites, as Moscow tightens security ahead of Victory Day.
Russia launched a fresh wave of airstrikes in the early hours, despite Ukraine's unilateral ceasefire proposal. Ukrainian military officials said the attack involved at least 89 Russian drones and ballistic missiles, with hits confirmed in eight locations; the operation was ongoing as several enemy unmanned aerial vehicles remained in Ukrainian airspace.
The ceasefire, proposed by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, took effect at midnight. It follows Russia's most severe strikes of the year on Tuesday; prior to the pause, at least 27 people were killed in Russian strikes across eastern Ukraine. President Vladimir Putin has not committed to observing the ceasefire, but has floated his own truce to cover 8 and 9 May, dates tied to Russia's World War II victory parade.
In Moscow, security was tightened ahead of Victory Day, with airports shut and mobile signals curtailed as precautionary measures, underscoring the heightened tension surrounding the holiday.
Zelensky condemned the moves, calling Russia's actions during the talks 'utter cynicism' as strikes continued ahead of any agreed pause. Kyiv has signaled it would pause fighting sooner than Russia's suggested window for a truce on 8-9 May, and any violation could be attributed to Moscow.
Analysts warned the pause may be fragile: while both sides seek to show restraint, the risk of renewed clashes remains as the calendar turns toward Victory Day and the anniversary of the war's end.
