"The Russian foreign minister issued a threat, promising "no mercy," whatever that means, if Ukrainians struck the parade. The Kremlin's spokesman reassured Muscovites that security was tight because the "threat from the Kyiv regime" had already been taken into account. The Russian president even persuaded the American president to ask the Ukrainian president for a one-day cease-fire."
Four years ago, a bargain was offered to Moscow’s business elite: support the war in Ukraine and avoid further concern. That understanding has been undermined by repeated Ukrainian drone operations reaching Moscow. Early incidents in 2023 showed vulnerabilities in Moscow’s air defenses when drones exploded near the Kremlin. Later efforts targeted Moscow’s airports with repeated drone activity that caused travel disruption and added costs. In May 2024, Russian officials reported hundreds of drones shot down over Moscow, and concerns rose ahead of the May 9 military parade tied to Vladimir Putin. Russian officials issued threats, emphasized preparedness, and sought a one-day cease-fire, which was granted after prisoner exchange discussions.
#ukraine-russia-war #ukrainian-drones #moscow-air-defenses #may-9-military-parade #cease-fire-negotiations
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