• Ukrainian drones continue to target Moscow, leading to flight restrictions ahead of the Victory Day parade.
• The Russian defense ministry reports significant drone interceptions impacting regional security.
• Ukrainian President Zelenskyy warns about safety for foreign delegations arriving for the celebration.
• Chinese President Xi Jinping among foreign leaders expected to attend the military parade on May 9.
• The situation raises concerns about potential provocations during the celebratory events.

Ukrainian drones have targeted Moscow for three consecutive days, prompting significant flight disruptions at the city's major airports as Russia prepares for its annual Victory Day parade on May 9. Mayor Sergey Sobyanin confirmed that air defense systems intercepted numerous drones, with Russian aviation authorities reporting over 100 flights canceled and more than 140 delayed due to ongoing security concerns. This situation coincides with the anticipated arrival of foreign leaders, including China's President Xi Jinping, adding to the significance of the events in Moscow, according to Indiatimes and TRT Global.

Reports indicate that air defenses shot down 19 drones around the Russian capital, with no immediate injuries or major damage reported, although debris from one drone fell onto a major highway. Flight operations were halted at four Moscow airports to ensure public safety, further complicating travel for attendees of the upcoming parade, as stated by both ABC News and The New York Times.

The Ukrainian military's sustained drone attacks appear to be part of a strategy to disrupt the national celebrations, with President Zelenskyy asserting that his government cannot guarantee the safety of foreign dignitaries attending, warning potential provocations from Russia itself. He emphasized that Ukraine would not take responsibility for incidents occurring in Russian territory during this period, as reported by Al Jazeera and AA.

The planned three-day unilateral ceasefire announced by Russian President Vladimir Putin aims to coincide with the Victory Day events. However, the effectiveness of this truce is questioned against the backdrop of continuous attacks from both sides, highlighting the intensifying military confrontation ahead. These developments showcase a precarious balance between celebration and conflict in the Russian capital, according to Indiatimes and TRT Global.