Tensions between Russia and Ukraine have escalated again, with deadly drone strikes hitting both Kyiv and Moscow just a day before Russia marks the 80th anniversary of the end of World War Two. The surge in attacks comes amid renewed efforts to broker a temporary ceasefire, spearheaded by President Vladimir Putin, who proposed a three-day truce to coincide with Victory in Europe Day commemorations.
Ukraine, however, has rejected the limited proposal, instead advocating for a more meaningful 30-day ceasefire, echoing a U.S.-backed initiative first suggested in March. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky dismissed the Russian truce offer as “pointless,” citing previous temporary ceasefires that were quickly violated by both sides.
Kyiv endured a night of heavy bombardment, resulting in the deaths of two residents in the Shevchenkivskyi district after debris from intercepted drones struck a residential building. Mayor Vitali Klitschko confirmed the fatalities and reported that seven others were injured, including four children. Fires erupted in several apartment buildings across three districts as a result of falling drone fragments.
Simultaneously, Moscow was targeted for the third consecutive night, prompting the temporary closure of the city’s four airports. Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin reported that Russian air defences shot down at least 14 Ukrainian drones late Tuesday night, though no damage or casualties were reported in the capital.
The renewed violence underscores the fragility of diplomatic efforts, even as Russia prepares to host a major commemoration attended by global leaders, including Chinese President Xi Jinping. The Kremlin had earlier declared a ceasefire from May 8 to May 10 to allow for the celebrations, but continued attacks suggest the pause in hostilities remains uncertain.
Russia has accused Ukraine of escalating drone strikes on its capital ahead of the anniversary, while Ukraine maintains it is responding to unrelenting Russian aggression. Previous truce efforts, including one over Easter, have repeatedly collapsed amid mutual accusations of violations.
As war drags into its third year, hopes for even a brief respite appear slim, with both nations entrenched in a battle that shows no signs of abating. The international community continues to push for a broader, more sustainable peace initiative.
