In a significant escalation of hostilities, Russian forces launched a ballistic missile and 43 drones against Ukraine on the night of May 8, according to the Ukrainian Air Force. The attack involved the Iskander-M missile system and various types of drones, including Shahed and Gerbera models.
As of 8 AM on May 9, Ukrainian air defenses reported the interception or suppression of 34 enemy drones across multiple regions, including the south, north, and east of the country. However, the missile strike and nine drones successfully hit six locations, with debris reported at two sites.
On the diplomatic front, U.S. President Donald Trump announced a three-day ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine, set to take place from May 9 to 11. This agreement, which includes a halt to hostilities and a prisoner exchange of 1,000 individuals on each side, was reportedly initiated by Trump, with confirmation from both Ukrainian and Russian leaders.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky issued a decree allowing a parade in Moscow on May 9, a move aimed at humanitarian considerations following discussions with U.S. officials. The decree specifies that Ukrainian weaponry will not be utilized during the event.
In response, Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov criticized any attempts to mock the significance of Victory Day, asserting that Russia does not require permission for its commemorations. Russian presidential aide Yuri Ushakov also confirmed the ceasefire agreement.
Prior to the ceasefire, a unilateral truce was declared by the Russian Ministry of Defense starting at midnight on May 8, coinciding with Victory Day celebrations. Ukraine indicated it would respond proportionately to Russian actions, following a previous ceasefire declared by Ukraine on May 6 that Russia did not respect. Both sides reported drone strikes on each other’s territories, with Russian cities such as Rostov-on-Don and Perm being targeted.
During the day on May 8, Zelensky emphasized that Ukraine’s actions on May 9 would depend on Russia’s conduct. He called for a lasting ceasefire, stating that a temporary truce solely for the parade in Moscow is unacceptable. Zelensky previously noted concerns within the Kremlin regarding potential Ukrainian strikes on Moscow during the celebrations.
The conflict between Russia and Ukraine has intensified with missile strikes and drone attacks, despite a newly announced ceasefire. Diplomatic efforts have led to a temporary truce, but tensions remain high as both sides prepare for potential escalations during the Victory Day celebrations.