Zelenskyy blasts ‘absolute cynicism’ as deadly Russian barrage hits Ukraine before planned ceasefire

Russian drone and missile strikes killed at least 22 people and wounded over 80 across Ukraine just hours before a planned ceasefire by Kyiv and days ahead of a unilateral pause announced by Moscow. The attacks targeted multiple cities, including Kramatorsk, Zaporizhzhia, and Chernihiv, with glide bombs causing significant civilian casualties. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy condemned the strikes as “absolute cynicism,” criticizing Russia for demanding silence during its Victory Day celebrations while continuing aggressive attacks. The Russian Defense Ministry had declared it would impose a ceasefire on May 9 and 10 for Victory Day, a holiday commemorating the Allied victory over Nazi Germany, but warned of retaliation if Ukraine disrupted the events. Despite these announcements, the recent attacks underscore the ongoing volatility and mistrust between the two nations. Past holiday truces, such as the one during Orthodox Easter, have also failed to hold, with both sides accusing each other of numerous ceasefire violations. United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres welcomed the ceasefire announcements but called for a full, immediate, unconditional, and lasting ceasefire to achieve sustainable peace. Zelenskyy reiterated that Russia could end the war at any time by ceasing hostilities, emphasizing Ukraine’s willingness to reciprocate peace efforts. The continued violence ahead of the planned ceasefire highlights the fragile nature of any temporary agreements and the broader challenges in resolving the conflict. The attacks and the fragile ceasefire plans come amid ongoing international scrutiny of the conflict, with NATO and Western allies closely monitoring developments. The persistent hostilities threaten civilian safety and complicate diplomatic efforts aimed at de-escalation, underscoring the urgent need for a durable resolution to the war.