**Russia’s Self-Proclaimed Truce Falls Flat on Front Lines**
As Russia’s self-declared truce, which was meant to mark the country’s Victory Day celebrations, came into effect at midnight on May 8, Ukrainian soldiers were quick to point out that there is no respite from the fighting. In fact, numerous cases of Russian military activity have been reported throughout the day.
“We’re not feeling any truce,” said Petro Kuzyk, a battalion commander at the National Guard. “There’s shelling, artillery, drone, and FPV (bomb) drops. It’s business as usual.”
The Kremlin had announced its plan for a unilateral ceasefire on April 28, claiming that all military actions would halt from May 8 to midnight on May 11 to mark Russia’s Victory Day on May 9. However, Ukraine was not consulted on the proposal, and Russia provided no details on how the ceasefire would be implemented or monitored.
President Volodymyr Zelensky has described the Russian truce as a “theatrical performance,” while experts have pointed out that ceasefires are typically negotiated between both parties to ensure compliance. The Kremlin’s unilateral declaration lacks “clear terms” and any monitoring arrangements, making it impossible for Ukraine to verify its implementation.
**No Reprieve from Fighting**
Soldiers on the front lines confirm that there has been no letup in Russian military activity. In Donetsk Oblast, a deputy commander of the drone unit reported that Russian drones are still highly active in the area. In Sumy Oblast, soldiers have described the front lines as “noisy,” with FPV drones continuing to fly.
“It’s been the fourth day of (Russian) assaults and force accumulation along the front line, and their aviation is working every day,” said a special forces sniper with the callsign “Bart.” He added that there was an air strike on his unit just hours ago.
The General Staff of Ukraine’s Armed Forces reported 117 “combat clashes” since the truce came into effect. Civilian casualties have also been reported, including women injured by an FPV drone in Kharkiv Oblast and a 55-year-old woman killed when her house was hit with an aerial bomb in Sumy Oblast.
**Russian President Vladimir Putin’s Cynical Move**
Experts believe that Russia’s decision to declare a ceasefire was motivated by the desire to avoid embarrassment on Victory Day celebrations. The Kremlin has been aware of Ukraine’s ability to strike Moscow with attack drones, and cancelling the event would have compromised its propaganda efforts.
“It is ironic that the fascists pay so much attention to the day of victory over fascism,” said the soldier with the call sign “Bart.” “We are looking forward to it, and hopefully, preparing gifts.”
The front lines remain noisy, and Ukrainian soldiers continue to fight for their country’s freedom.
