Russian forces violated the announced ceasefire with strikes across Ukraine, including Kharkiv and Zaporizhzhia, effectively nullifying the proposed May 9 truce, according to defense ministry officials.
Ceasefire Nullified by Russian Attacks
Russian forces violated the silence regime with a series of attacks on Ukraine, nullifying the “ceasefire” announced by Putin for May 9, according to Sternenko on Telegram on Wednesday, May 6.
President Zelensky announced on May 4 that he was ready to order a halt to fighting on May 6. While Russia also announced a ceasefire, the Kremlin intended for it to be effective on May 8 and 9. Commentators suggest Vladimir Putin fears Ukrainian attacks on Moscow during Victory Day celebrations.
Russian Attacks on Ukraine: Injuries in Kharkiv
Kharkiv regional authorities reported on Wednesday morning that Russian forces attacked a district in Kharkiv, damaging private homes and causing a fire that injured two people. Sternenko also reported attacks in other regions of Ukraine.
In the Zaporizhzhia region, an industrial infrastructure object was attacked. In Kherson, Russia used a KAB guided aerial bomb, while Shahed drones also attacked Kryvyi Rih, according to the defense minister’s advisor.
Zelensky: Ukrainian Drones May Fly Over Parade
During the European Political Community summit in Kyiv on Monday, May 4, Zelensky stated that Russia is no longer as strong as it once was. He noted that while Russia has announced a military parade for May 9, it will lack heavy military equipment, marking the first time they cannot afford such a presence.
He added that Ukrainian drones may fly over the parade, which demonstrates that Russia is not as strong as before.
Ukrainian Foreign Ministry Comments on Attacks
Foreign Minister Andriy Sybiha noted that overnight Russian strikes involving 108 drones and three missiles continued through the morning, with attacks hitting Kharkiv and Zaporizhzhia. He stated that Russia rejects peace and that its calls for a ceasefire on May 9 are not related to diplomacy.
Sybiha emphasized that Putin is solely interested in military parades rather than human lives. He called for increased pressure on Russia, including new sanctions, isolation, accountability for Russian crimes, and greater support for Ukraine.
