Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has issued a decree excluding the area around Moscow’s Red Square from Ukrainian weapon use for the May 9 Victory Day parade following discussions with US officials.
Red Square Weapon Exclusion
Volodymyr Zelensky signed a decree on Friday, May 8, excluding the area around Moscow’s Red Square from the plan for using Ukrainian weapons. The decree will be valid on May 9.
According to the document published on the official website of the Ukrainian President, the decision was made for humanitarian purposes, in accordance with arrangements made during talks with the American side on May 8, 2026.
Military Response and Warnings
Zelensky issued a statement before the Moscow parade, noting that while Ukraine’s position regarding a ceasefire is logical, they will react to Russian actions. He reported that the day began with shelling and drone activity on the front, to which Ukraine responded in kind.
The President warned that Ukrainian drones could potentially fly over Red Square. He emphasized that the nature of tomorrow’s day depends on what is heard from Russia today.
Victory Day and Historical Context
As Moscow prepares for the Victory Day parade commemorating the end of WWII, Zelensky remarked that modern Russian forces are attempting to restore the same “mad order” defeated during the Second World War.
Russia unilaterally declared a ceasefire between May 8-10 in connection with the parade and to avoid Ukrainian attacks. Ukraine had also unilaterally declared a ceasefire, though it sought it to be effective from midnight on May 5.
Trump’s Proposed Truce
Donald Trump announced on TruthSocial that a three-day ceasefire will take place between May 9 and May 11. The truce will include the suspension of all combat activities and a prisoner exchange on a 1000-for-1000 formula.
Trump stated the request was made directly by him and expressed appreciation for its acceptance by Presidents Vladimir Putin and Volodymyr Zelensky, hoping it marks the beginning of the end to the conflict.
