In a bold display of military capability, Ukrainian drones disrupted air traffic across much of Russia on May 6, 2025, prompting a significant response from Russian air defenses. The strikes, which coincided with the upcoming commemoration of the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II in Europe, resulted in the closure of 13 airports, including Moscow’s four major hubs, according to Russia's aviation regulatory body. Flights resumed by the morning following the attacks.
While the Ukrainian government remained silent on the drone strikes, the timing raised questions regarding their intent. The barrage, involving at least 11 regions, appears linked to ongoing hostilities, as Ukraine continues its long-range drone operations in retaliation for nightly Russian bombardments targeting Ukrainian cities. Concurrently, Russian drone strikes in Ukraine's Sumy, Kharkiv, and Odesa cities killed four people and injured at least 11.
President Vladimir Putin has invited around 20 global dignitaries, including China’s President Xi Jinping, to the upcoming Victory Day parade in Red Square and has requested a brief three-day truce for the event. However, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has dismissed this proposal, stating a more extensive cease-fire of at least 30 days is necessary and labeling the short truce as insufficient. Zelensky has expressed concern for the safety of parade attendees, signaling that guarantees could not be assured amid the ongoing conflict.
