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Russia snubs Ukraine's unilateral ceasefire, firing dozens of drones
Ukraine announced a unilateral ceasefire starting at midnight, but Russia launched nighttime drone attacks and missiles. Ukrainian civilian deaths were reported, and Moscow proposed a brief pause on May 8–9, prompting international reactions. The events unfolded against the backdrop of a war entering its fifth year.
Why It Matters
The strikes and ceasefire timing reflect ongoing tensions and civilian risk in the conflict, with international calls for accountability and peace efforts continuing despite clashes.
Timeline
8 Events
May 9 ceasefire pause referenced by Moscow
May 9, 2026
The two-day unilateral ceasefire pause was described as aligning with holidays around May 9, the 81st anniversary of the defeat of Nazi Germany, continuing Moscow's pattern of holiday-timed pauses.
Russia proposes stop-fighting on May 8, 2026
May 8, 2026
Moscow proposed stopping fighting on Friday, May 8, 2026 and Saturday, May 9, 2026, timed to coincide with the 81st anniversary of the defeat of Nazi Germany in World War II.
Sybiha calls for increased international pressure on Moscow
May 6, 2026
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha called for increased international pressure on Moscow, including new sanctions, diplomatic isolation, accountability for war crimes and expanded military and civilian support for Ukraine.
Russia fires dozens of drones in nighttime attacks; 53 Ukrainian drones shot down
May 6, 2026
Russian forces fired dozens of drones at Ukraine in nighttime attacks, with air defences reporting the downing of 53 Ukrainian drones over Russian regions, the occupied Crimea and the Black Sea between May 5 evening and May 6 dawn.
Five killed in Ukrainian drone strike on Dzhankoi, Crimea
May 6, 2026
Five people were killed by a Ukrainian drone strike on the city of Dzhankoi in Crimea, according to Russia-installed Governor Sergei Aksyonov, who reported the casualties just after midnight.
Russia launches 108 drones and three missiles overnight
May 5, 2026
Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha said Russian forces launched 108 drones and three missiles overnight, with attacks continuing throughout the night and into May 6 morning.
Ukraine reports civilian casualties from Russian strikes
May 5, 2026
Ukrainian Interior Minister Ihor Klymenko said Russian drone and missile strikes across Ukraine killed 27 people and wounded 120 civilians.
Zelenskyy announces Ukraine's unilateral ceasefire
May 5, 2026
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced a unilateral ceasefire, stating that any breach would trigger a military response.