Ukraine launched a second wave of drone attacks in Moscow, Russia, late Tuesday, as local authorities heightened security measures ahead of May 9 Victory Day celebrations in the capital.
In a bold move, Ukraine launched drone strikes on Moscow for the second night in a row. The attack came just days before Russia’s Victory Day parade, a key event for President Vladimir Putin. The strikes disrupted air travel and forced authorities to review planned celebrations.
Flights Grounded as Drones Hit the Capital
Moscow's skies turned tense as Russian air defenses intercepted 19 Ukrainian drones overnight. This followed an earlier attack where four drones were shot down near the city. Debris landed on a major highway, though no casualties or major damage were reported.
The Russian aviation authority temporarily suspended flights at four major Moscow airports. Flights have since resumed at some of the affected airports. The Russian Defense Ministry confirmed a total of 105 drones were intercepted across the country.
Tensions High Ahead of Xi Jinping’s Visit
Chinese President Xi Jinping is set to arrive in Moscow on Wednesday for a three-day state visit. He is among the key international leaders expected to attend the May 9 Victory Day celebrations. The visit places additional pressure on Russia to ensure security amid rising attacks.
Other global leaders including Brazil’s President Lula da Silva, Vietnam’s President To Lam, and Belarus’ Alexander Lukashenko are expected to attend. India, South Africa, and Nicaragua will send high-level delegations, according to Kremlin officials.
Victory Day – A Show of Power and Patriotism
Victory Day is Russia’s most symbolic military celebration. It honors the Soviet Union’s role in defeating Nazi Germany and remembers over 25 million fallen soldiers and civilians. Thousands are expected to fill Red Square on Friday in a highly patriotic display.
Putin traditionally uses this day to rally public support and project Russia’s military might to the world. But recent drone attacks and internal unrest have cast a shadow over the event.
Kyiv Warns Foreign Leaders Against Attending
Ukraine’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a stern warning. It urged foreign countries not to send troops or delegates to the Victory Day celebrations in Moscow. Kyiv said participation would signal complicity in Russia’s ongoing aggression.
“Such involvement would desecrate the memory of those who fought against Nazism,” the ministry said. Ukraine warned that attendance would be viewed as support for Moscow’s actions in the war.
Parade Plans Scaled Back in Key Regions
Amid the escalating threat, Russia has canceled some regional celebrations. Events in Sevastopol, Crimea, and the city of Krasnodar have been called off for security reasons. Local governors cited the frequent air threats and the need to protect citizens.
“There’s an air threat almost every night,” said Krasnodar’s regional head. “We can’t risk people’s lives.”
Ukraine Rejects Short-Term Ceasefire
President Putin recently proposed a three-day ceasefire to coincide with Victory Day. He described it as a “humanitarian gesture.” But Ukraine dismissed the offer, demanding a longer truce of at least 30 days.
President Zelensky accused Russia of violating its own ceasefire. Since April 29, Ukraine claims Russia has launched over 1,850 attacks, killing 46 civilians and injuring hundreds more.
Deadly Missile Strike Adds to Tensions
On Tuesday, a Russian missile strike in Sumy, central Ukraine, killed three people, including a six-year-old boy. Authorities confirmed eight others were wounded, with two in critical condition.
White House Pushes for Peace
The U.S. renewed calls for a permanent ceasefire. But peace talks remain stalled as both sides continue to escalate. Meanwhile, Zelensky issued a warning to visiting leaders: Ukraine cannot guarantee safety inside Russian borders during wartime.
Drones Shift the Battlefield
Ukraine has increasingly relied on drones to strike deep inside Russian territory. On Saturday, Kyiv claimed to have downed a Russian Su-30 fighter jet over the Black Sea using a sea-based drone.
Reports also suggest Ukrainian forces are still operating inside Russia’s Kursk region, contradicting Moscow’s claim of full control.
China Denies Involvement
Amid growing tension, Zelensky demanded explanations from China. He alleged Chinese fighters were captured in Ukraine and accused Beijing of aiding Russia. China denied the claims and urged its citizens to avoid participating in any conflict.
As Parade Nears, Risks Remain High
With Victory Day fast approaching, the Kremlin faces a delicate balance. It must maintain a strong public image while guarding against further Ukrainian attacks. The next few days will test both Putin’s leadership and Russia’s defense systems.
