Russia has warned foreign embassies in Kyiv to evacuate their staff, citing potential attacks on the Ukrainian capital during the Victory Day parade in Moscow this weekend. The warning comes despite Ukraine's offer of a truce extending before, during, and after the anniversary, provided Russia halts attacks on Ukraine. Russian President Vladimir Putin has demanded a narrow ceasefire on his own terms to protect the annual parade.
Russia's Threat and Ukraine's Response
In a note to diplomatic missions and international organizations, Russia stated it would launch a "retaliatory" strike on Kyiv, including against "decision-making centres," if Ukraine disrupts the commemorations on Saturday. The note urged the "timely evacuation of personnel from diplomatic and other missions, as well as citizens, from the city of Kyiv." Ukraine proposed its own ceasefire starting on 6 May, which Russia ignored. President Volodymyr Zelenskyy reported that Russia had committed 1,820 violations by late morning on Wednesday. "Russia's choice is an obvious spurning of a ceasefire and of saving lives," he said. He added that Ukraine was ready for peace but criticized Moscow's focus on the parade.
Drone Attacks and Civilian Casualties
On Wednesday, Russian drones struck a kindergarten in Sumy, a northeastern city, killing a security guard and wounding two others. Officials confirmed no children were present at the time. According to the UN human rights monitoring mission in Ukraine, Russian attacks on 14 regions since last Friday have killed at least 70 civilians and wounded more than 500. In occupied Crimea, a Ukrainian drone strike on Dzhankoi killed five people, as reported by the Russia-installed governor.
Hungary Returns Seized Ukrainian Funds
Hungary has returned cash and gold belonging to Ukraine's Oschadbank, seized by Budapest's security service in March. President Zelenskyy welcomed the move, noting it normalized strained ties. Under outgoing Prime Minister Viktor Orbán, Hungary detained seven Ukrainians transporting around $82 million in cash and gold, which Ukraine denounced as racketeering. Both funds and gold have been returned in full, with Zelenskyy praising Hungary's "constructive approach." Orbán lost recent elections to Péter Magyar, who is set to take office on Saturday.
Pussy Riot Protests at Venice Biennale
The Russian pavilion at the Venice Biennale was temporarily shut down after activist group Pussy Riot staged a protest against Russia's inclusion in the art festival. Wearing pink balaclavas, protesters ran toward the pavilion, lit flares, played punk music, and shouted slogans like "Blood is Russia's art." They wore messages such as "Curated by Putin, dead bodies included" and "Russia kills, biennale exhibits." A statue outside was wrapped in a Ukrainian flag. Founding member Nadya Tolokonnikova criticized Europe for allowing Russian propaganda despite calling Ukraine a shield for the continent.
Ukraine Seeks Alternatives to Chinese Drone Parts
Ukraine is working to reduce its reliance on Chinese components for drones, turning to Taiwan as an alternative supplier. Despite Beijing's denials, Ukraine accuses China of aiding Russia with military goods. Bohdan Diorditsa, chief international alliances officer at Ukrainian drone maker Vyriy, called Taiwan a "100% valuable partner" due to its strengths in semiconductors and electronics integration.
EU and Sweden Actions
Sweden's coast guard detained a tanker suspected of being part of Russia's "shadow fleet" carrying oil. The Jin Hui was boarded on Sunday in Swedish waters, sailing under a Syrian flag with concerns about its seaworthiness. The vessel is on EU, UK, and Ukrainian sanctions lists. Germany's foreign minister Johann Wadephul called for the EU to abolish its unanimous decision-making rule, which he said allows member states to hold decisions "hostage." He criticized Hungary for blocking EU measures such as aid to Ukraine and urged giving Brussels more power to withhold funds from countries violating common values.
