Context:

Vladimir Putin led Russia's Victory Day celebrations with a parade in Red Square, amidst heightened security following Ukrainian strikes on Moscow. Despite Russia's announcement of a three-day ceasefire, Ukraine rejected it as theatrical, reporting thousands of attacks since the ceasefire began. Over 20 international leaders, including China's Xi Jinping, attended the event, which Ukraine's Zelensky warned could be a legitimate military target due to ongoing hostilities. Zelensky has called for a genuine ceasefire, accusing Russia of violating its own truce, and has urged for a longer, more substantial truce supported by Europe and the US. The presence of Xi Jinping is seen as a diplomatic success for Putin, as they conducted multiple discussions regarding the war in Ukraine before the parade.

Dive Deeper:

• Putin hosted a Victory Day parade in Red Square with tight security following Ukrainian strikes, while Russia announced a unilateral three-day ceasefire, which Ukraine dismissed as a theatrical show.

• Ukraine reported thousands of attacks since the ceasefire took effect and accused Russia of numerous violations, while Russia claimed compliance and blamed Ukraine for breaches.

• The event saw significant international attendance, including China's Xi Jinping, with security concerns raised by Ukraine's Zelensky, who cautioned against traveling to Moscow.

• Zelensky has consistently dismissed the ceasefire as a political maneuver by Putin, advocating for a longer truce of at least 30 days, supported by Ukraine's allies in Europe and the US.

• Despite the ceasefire, Ukraine reported hundreds of clashes and multiple air strikes by Russia, with a notable incident in Prymorske where a Russian drone strike resulted in a civilian casualty.

• Putin's diplomatic success was highlighted by Xi Jinping's presence, with both leaders engaging in discussions about the ongoing conflict in Ukraine prior to the parade.

• The parade occurred under heavy restrictions in Moscow, affecting flights and leaving thousands stranded due to Ukrainian drone attacks, as Russia displayed its latest military weaponry.