Daijiworld Media Network – Moscow

Moscow, May 5: Russian President Vladimir Putin on Monday announced a two-day ceasefire in the ongoing conflict with Ukraine on May 8 and 9, coinciding with Victory Day commemorations marking the defeat of Nazi Germany in World War II, the Defence Ministry said.

In a statement, the ministry said it expects Ukraine to observe the ceasefire and warned of strong retaliation if the truce is breached.

It further stated that Russia possesses the capability to launch a “massive retaliatory missile strike” targeting central Kyiv if Ukraine attempts to disrupt Victory Day events.

“Despite the capabilities at our disposal, Russia has previously refrained from such actions on humanitarian grounds,” the ministry said, adding that it remains prepared to respond if the ceasefire is not respected.

The statement also urged civilians in Kyiv, along with staff at foreign diplomatic missions, to leave the city in a timely manner as a precautionary measure.

The announcement comes amid continuing hostilities, with both sides recently offering conflicting claims over developments in Ukraine’s Sumy region.