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Russia's Defense Ministry announced that its air defenses intercepted 347 Ukrainian drones overnight, indicating a significant attack from Ukraine following
Moscow's rejection of a ceasefire proposal earlier in the week. The attack coincides with rising tensions as Russia prepares for its Victory Day celebrations. The ministry stated that drones were neutralized over 20 regions, including Moscow, marking Ukraine's second-largest aerial offensive since Russia's invasion four years ago. The largest previous attack occurred in March, when 389 drones were launched.
Upcoming Victory Day Celebrations
The drone assault occurred just days before Russia's Victory Day, which commemorates the defeat of Nazi Germany in World War II. In anticipation of the holiday, Russian authorities announced a unilateral ceasefire for Friday and Saturday.In response, Ukraine declared its own pause in hostilities starting midnight Tuesday. However, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy criticized Russia for disregarding the ceasefire and continuing military operations.
Military Activity and Security Measures
President Zelenskyy expressed concerns about ongoing Russian military actions, stating, “Russia has not stopped any type of its military activity. Unfortunately, it has not stopped. Ukraine will act symmetrically.”As tensions escalate ahead of Victory Day, the U.S.-led peace efforts remain stagnant. Reports indicate that mobile internet and text messaging services in Moscow will be suspended on May 9, according to the Ministry of Digital Development, Communications and Mass Media.
Changes to Moscow's Celebrations
This year's traditional parade in Moscow will notably lack the usual display of tanks and military equipment, a first in nearly two decades. Authorities have cited concerns about potential Ukrainian attacks as a factor for the reduced military presence.Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov attributed the scaled-back celebrations and heightened security to what he described as “terrorist activity” from Ukraine, in reference to the drone strikes.
