Putin Hosts Xi Jinping for Russia's Victory Day Parade Amidst Ukraine Conflict

Victory Day Commemorations in Moscow

• 🇷🇺 Thousands of Russian troops marched past the Kremlin to mark the 80th anniversary of the Soviet victory over Nazi Germany in World War Two.
• 🇨🇳 Chinese President Xi Jinping and the leader of Brazil were among the international dignitaries attending the parade in Red Square.
• 🗣️ Vladimir Putin addressed the attendees, stating Russia would always remember the Allied contribution to victory and that the entire country supports the "special military operation" in Ukraine.

Reactions to the Parade and Ceasefire

• 🇺🇦 Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky described the event as a "parade of cynicism" and urged heads of state not to travel to Moscow.
• 🕊️ Former President Trump called for an unconditional 30-day ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine, stating his commitment to lasting peace.
• 💬 Zelensky indicated Kiev is ready for a ceasefire, which would be a real indicator of progress towards peace.

Ceasefire Status and Continued Fighting

• ⚠️ Despite Putin's order for a 3-day ceasefire, fighting continued, with Ukrainian authorities reporting ongoing Russian attacks across the front.
• 🇷🇺 Russia, in turn, accused Ukraine of attempting incursions into the Kursk region.
• ✈️ Air activity over Kyiv and other major Ukrainian cities has largely ceased for the past two nights, indicating a de-escalation in aerial attacks.
• 💥 However, the ceasefire is not holding on the front lines, with exchanges of artillery, mortar fire, and glide bombs continuing along the extensive front.
• 💣 Ukraine reported Russia launched nearly 100 glide bombs, which are guided Soviet-era heavy bombs launched from across the border.