Overview
- Russia’s Foreign Ministry told foreign governments and international organizations to pull diplomats and nationals from Kyiv ahead of the May 9 Victory Day events.
- Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova warned that any attack timed to the celebrations would trigger retaliatory strikes that could include central Kyiv.
- Moscow has tightened security around Red Square for the parade, and authorities have signaled possible internet restrictions or cutoffs as part of those measures.
- Russia has also announced a ceasefire for May 8–9, even as it threatens swift retaliation if Ukraine stages attacks linked to the holiday.
- The heightened posture follows a recent drone collision at a central Moscow high-rise and Kremlin anger over President Volodymyr Zelenskyy’s public comments about potential drones over Red Square.