Overview
- Russia's unilateral three-day ceasefire for Victory Day commemorations officially began on May 8 but has been marred by accusations of violations from both sides.
- Ukraine has reported 734 ceasefire breaches and 63 assault attempts by Russian forces since the truce's start, calling it a 'farce.'
- The Kremlin insists its forces are respecting the ceasefire and only responding to Ukrainian attacks, while maintaining heightened security for Victory Day events in Moscow.
- Drone strikes and aerial attacks persisted before the ceasefire took effect, resulting in civilian casualties in Kyiv and disruptions at Russian airports.
- Ukraine continues to demand an unconditional 30-day ceasefire as a prerequisite for meaningful negotiations, a proposal previously rejected by Russia.