Russian President Vladimir Putin commemorated Victory Day with a grand parade in Moscow, while Ukrainian officials dismissed a newly declared ceasefire as just for show amid ongoing strikes.
Putin Leads Victory Day Celebrations Amid Heightened Security and Controversial Ceasefire
Putin Leads Victory Day Celebrations Amid Heightened Security and Controversial Ceasefire
Victory Day parade marked with international attendance, but Ukraine rejects ceasefire as insincere.
In a significant display of military might, Vladimir Putin spearheaded Russia's Victory Day celebrations in Red Square, surrounded by heightened security measures following recent Ukrainian attacks on the capital. The event marks the 80th anniversary of the Soviet Union’s victory over Nazi Germany, attracting over 20 international leaders, including Chinese President Xi Jinping.
In a strategic move, Russia announced a unilateral three-day ceasefire that coincides with the commemorations; however, this was swiftly dismissed by Ukrainian officials as a "theatrical show" intended only to provide a veneer of security for the parade. The Ukrainian military revealed that they faced extensive assaults throughout the supposed truce, alleging thousands of attacks, while Russian officials maintain that their ceasefire was honored despite claiming numerous violations from Ukraine.
As celebrations unfolded, Moscow saw stringent restrictions with flights canceled, leaving thousands of passengers stranded. The military parade showcased thousands of troops and advanced weaponry, signaling Russia's ongoing commitment to its military operations. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky urged his counterparts not to attend the event, citing safety concerns amid the backdrop of hostilities.
Zelensky also expressed that Ukraine is prepared for an immediate ceasefire, contingent on genuine compliance, calling for an end to missile strikes and assaults. He condemned the Russian ceasefire as merely a ruse while noting significant clashes persisted, with Ukrainian sources reporting nearly 200 confrontations and numerous airstrikes on day two of the declared truce.
Russian military authorities claimed adherence to the ceasefire but invoked a "mirror-like" response to alleged Ukrainian violations. Zelensky's criticisms cast doubt on Putin's overtures for peace, advocating instead for a prolonged ceasefire of at least 30 days—a sentiment echoed by Western allies.
Amid these developments, former U.S. President Donald Trump reiterated the necessity for an unconditional ceasefire, warning of potential sanctions for any nation that undermines the peace process.
In a strategic move, Russia announced a unilateral three-day ceasefire that coincides with the commemorations; however, this was swiftly dismissed by Ukrainian officials as a "theatrical show" intended only to provide a veneer of security for the parade. The Ukrainian military revealed that they faced extensive assaults throughout the supposed truce, alleging thousands of attacks, while Russian officials maintain that their ceasefire was honored despite claiming numerous violations from Ukraine.
As celebrations unfolded, Moscow saw stringent restrictions with flights canceled, leaving thousands of passengers stranded. The military parade showcased thousands of troops and advanced weaponry, signaling Russia's ongoing commitment to its military operations. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky urged his counterparts not to attend the event, citing safety concerns amid the backdrop of hostilities.
Zelensky also expressed that Ukraine is prepared for an immediate ceasefire, contingent on genuine compliance, calling for an end to missile strikes and assaults. He condemned the Russian ceasefire as merely a ruse while noting significant clashes persisted, with Ukrainian sources reporting nearly 200 confrontations and numerous airstrikes on day two of the declared truce.
Russian military authorities claimed adherence to the ceasefire but invoked a "mirror-like" response to alleged Ukrainian violations. Zelensky's criticisms cast doubt on Putin's overtures for peace, advocating instead for a prolonged ceasefire of at least 30 days—a sentiment echoed by Western allies.
Amid these developments, former U.S. President Donald Trump reiterated the necessity for an unconditional ceasefire, warning of potential sanctions for any nation that undermines the peace process.
