Russia's Defense Ministry has declared a unilateral ceasefire in Ukraine for Friday and Saturday to mark the 81st anniversary of the defeat of Nazi Germany in World War II.
The ceasefire is conditional, however, with Russia warning it will strike back at Kyiv if Ukraine attempts to disrupt the Victory Day festivities.
Authorities have pared down the traditional military parade on Moscow's Red Square, citing concerns over possible Ukrainian attacks.
Russia has been launching drone attacks deep inside Ukraine to counter its more than 4-year-old invasion.
President Vladimir Putin has used Victory Day to showcase Russia's military might and global clout, but this year's parade will take place without tanks, missiles, and other military equipment for the first time in nearly two decades.
