In accordance with the decision of Supreme Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation Vladimir Putin, a ceasefire is declared on 8–9 May 2026 in honour of the celebration of the Victory of the Soviet people in the Great Patriotic War.

We expect the Ukrainian side to follow this example.

At the same time, we have taken note of the statement made by the head of the Kiev regime in Yerevan at the European Political Community Summit, which contains threats to strike Moscow on 9 May.

The Armed Forces of the Russian Federation will take all necessary measures to ensure the security of the festive events.

Should the Kiev regime attempt to carry out its criminal plans aimed at disrupting the celebration of the 81st anniversary of the Victory in the Great Patriotic War, the Armed Forces of the Russian Federation will launch a retaliatory, massive missile strike on the centre of Kiev.

Despite the capabilities at its disposal, Russia has previously refrained from such actions for humanitarian reasons.

We warn the civilian population of Kiev and the staff of foreign diplomatic missions to leave the city in a timely manner.

🔹 Russian Defence Ministry