May 7, Moscow, Russia
Ukraine launched a second consecutive night of drone attacks on Moscow, prompting temporary flight suspensions at four major airports and heightened security just days before Russia’s Victory Day celebrations, which are expected to host global leaders, including China’s Xi Jinping.
Moscow Mayor Sergey Sobyanin confirmed that 19 Ukrainian drones were intercepted near the capital overnight, with debris falling on a major highway. The Russian defense ministry stated that 105 drones were shot down across the country. No casualties were reported, though several airports briefly halted operations as a precaution.
The timing of the attacks is significant, as they come ahead of the May 9 Victory Day parade, Russia’s most prominent military holiday. The Kremlin said 29 world leaders, including those from Brazil, Vietnam, and Belarus, are expected to attend. Chinese President Xi Jinping is due to arrive Wednesday for a three-day state visit.
Ukraine has strongly condemned foreign participation in the parade, calling it a betrayal of the memory of those who fought Nazism and warning that such involvement would equate to complicity in ongoing Russian aggression. Thirteen foreign nations are set to participate in the military march, according to Russian officials.
Citing security concerns, Russian authorities canceled Victory Day events in parts of southern Russia and occupied Crimea. In Sevastopol and Krasnodar, local leaders emphasized the risk of air attacks as justification.
Despite a ceasefire declared by Russian President Vladimir Putin from May 6 to 9, Ukraine has rejected the truce, calling it insincere. Since the ceasefire was announced, Russia has reportedly conducted over 1,800 attacks. A missile strike on Sumy on Tuesday killed three civilians, including a child.
Meanwhile, Kyiv continues to utilize drone warfare to offset Russia’s military advantage. Over the weekend, Ukraine claimed it had downed a Russian Su-30 jet using a sea-based drone. Ukrainian forces also maintain a presence inside Russia’s Kursk region, contrary to Moscow’s claims of full control.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has warned foreign dignitaries attending Victory Day that Kyiv “cannot be responsible for what happens” inside Russia during the conflict, insisting Ukraine won’t help “create a pleasant atmosphere” for Putin.
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