Volodymyr Zelensky has advised against attending Moscow’s Victory Day Parade amid reports of Putin’s concerns about a possible attack. The Ukrainian president issued this caution following Moscow’s evacuation order for foreign diplomats and citizens in Kyiv ahead of a potential missile strike.

Russia has warned of attacking the city if the celebrations on Saturday are disrupted, with speculations about deploying Oreshnik missiles capable of causing significant devastation. Russian foreign ministry spokesperson Maria Zhakharova urged timely evacuation of diplomatic personnel and citizens from Kyiv.

In a social media address, Zelensky mentioned that Ukraine was aware of representatives from Russia-aligned countries planning to participate in Moscow events but recommended against attending. He criticized Moscow for prioritizing the parade over ongoing conflicts and violence in Ukraine.

Leaders from Belarus, Malaysia, Laos, Abkhazia, and South Ossetia are expected to join the Saturday celebrations. Zelensky’s statements preceded Russia’s announcement of an extended ceasefire for the anniversary of Nazi Germany’s defeat, which he accused Putin of disregarding by continuing strikes on Ukraine.

Putin is scheduled to attend the parade in Red Square, with heightened security measures in place amid concerns of a potential Ukrainian attack. The Kremlin has deployed snipers, machine gunners, and anti-drone weapons, fortifying the area with armed checkpoints to ensure safety during the event.