Russia threatened on Monday to launch a "massive missile strike" on Kyiv if Ukraine breaks a two-day ceasefire scheduled for May 8-9, according to a report by France 24.
The unilateral truce coincides with Moscow's annual commemorations of Victory Day, marking the end of World War II.
The Russian defense ministry announced the ceasefire via a post on the state-backed messaging app MAX, stating that the pause is in accordance with a decision by Russian Supreme Commander-in-Chief Vladimir Putin.
"We hope that the Ukrainian side will follow suit," the Russian defense ministry stated, according to France 24.
Warning to civilians
The Kremlin issued a direct warning to the inhabitants of the Ukrainian capital regarding potential retaliation.
"If the Kyiv regime attempts to implement its criminal plans to disrupt the celebration of the 81st anniversary of Victory in the Great Patriotic War, the Russian Armed Forces will launch a retaliatory, massive missile strike on the center of Kyiv," the ministry warned.
Russia also advised the local population to evacuate the city immediately. The defense ministry added that the civilian population of Kyiv and employees of foreign diplomatic missions should "leave the city promptly."
President Putin first proposed the truce last week during a telephone conversation with U.S. President Donald Trump.
Ukraine indicated last week that it would seek specific details regarding the offer from Washington officials, the outlet reported.
This escalation follows reports that Russia had already scaled down its World War II victory parade preparations due to potential Ukrainian threats.
