Dmitry Medvedev, who serves as the vice-chairman of the Russian Security Council, claimed on Saturday that if Ukraine were to strike Moscow on May 10, it could jeopardize the safety of Kyiv’s capital.
On Monday, Russian President Vladimir Putin announced a three-day ceasefire in the ongoing conflict with Ukraine, marking the 80th anniversary of the Soviet Union’s victory in World War II.
The Kremlin stated that this temporary ceasefire will be observed on May 8 and 9. During this period, President Putin is expected to welcome international leaders, including Chinese President Xi Jinping, for the celebrations centered around the victory over Nazi Germany on May 10.
In response, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky stated that he would agree to a ceasefire — but only if it lasted for 30 days.
Zelensky expressed concerns that, given the ongoing hostilities with Russia, there could be risks to the safety of foreign guests attending the traditional victory parade in Moscow on May 9.
“We can’t take responsibility for what happens within Russia. Their security is their own concern, and we can’t provide any guarantees,” he remarked.
Medvedev, a former president and a notable critic of the West, referred to Zelensky’s remarks as a “provocation.” He noted that no guarantees for Kyiv’s safety had been requested regarding the May 9 celebrations.
“Zelensky knows that if a real incident occurs on Victory Day, then Kyiv can’t assure that he’ll see May 10,” Medvedev commented on his Telegram channel.
