• Russia and Ukraine accuse each other of violating a ceasefire linked to Victory Day celebrations.
• Ukrainian President Zelenskyy reports over 850 drone strikes from Russia within 24 hours.
• Russia claims to have downed 264 Ukrainian drones amid ongoing attacks.
• Conflicts continue despite calls for a truce surrounding the May 9 Victory Day parade.

Despite a proposed two-day ceasefire intended for the Victory Day celebrations, Russia and Ukraine continue to exchange fire, with both sides accusing each other of violations. The ceasefire, announced by Moscow, coincides with commemorations marking the Soviet Union’s victory in World War II, but both nations have resumed attacks, indicating a lack of trust in the arrangement, according to Reuters and Al Jazeera.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy reported that Russian forces executed more than 140 attacks and over 850 drone strikes on Ukrainian positions within 24 hours, which he criticized as not reflecting any genuine attempt at peace. Zelenskyy characterized the ceasefire as a mere “propaganda measure” designed to secure a successful military parade in Moscow, highlighting the ongoing violent exchange, according to India Times and Al Jazeera.

In the early hours of the ceasefire, the Russian Defence Ministry claimed to have downed 264 Ukrainian drones and reported drone attacks targeting Moscow and the perm region. As Russia prepares for the annual Victory Day parade on May 9, it has taken significant security measures, including shutting down city-wide internet access and warning foreign diplomats about potential attacks, which demonstrates the heightened state of alert in Moscow, according to Reuters and India Times.

Amidst the ongoing hostilities, Ukraine managed to strike an oil facility within Russian territory and has made clear that it will continue to respond effectively to any military action by Russia. Zelenskyy’s administration continues to assert that Ukraine will defend its territory vigorously, while also urging foreign nations to reconsider their participation in Moscow's celebrations. Notably, Russia's forthcoming parade will omit military equipment for the first time in nearly two decades, reflecting the seriousness of the current military situation, according to Al Jazeera and India Times.