Russia launches attacks in Ukraine during supposed ceasefire
- Russian forces attacked Ukraine shortly after a 72-hour ceasefire was declared.
- Ukraine reported civilian casualties and hundreds of violations by Russian troops.
- The ceasefire coincided with Russia's May 9 Victory Day, leading to skepticism about its sincerity.
On May 9, 2025, in Ukraine, a 72-hour ceasefire called by Russian President Vladimir Putin was undermined by ongoing attacks across the country. Ukrainian officials reported that one person was killed and two others were injured when Russian forces dropped guided air bombs in residential areas of the northeast Sumy region shortly after the ceasefire commenced at midnight on Thursday, Moscow time. Subsequent attacks have seen civilian infrastructure hit, while an investigation into potential war crimes was launched by Ukrainian authorities. The ceasefire was intended to coincide with Russia's May 9 Victory Day celebrations, marking the defeat of Nazi Germany, which is a significant event in Russian history. However, Ukrainian officials criticized the truce, asserting that it is a mere political gesture, not a genuine move toward peace. They stated that Russian forces violated the ceasefire with hundreds of attacks across the frontlines within hours of its initiation. Reports indicate at least 734 violations and 63 assault operations by Russian troops in the first part of the ceasefire, leading Ukraine's government to label the approach as a