Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy issued a decree purportedly authorizing the May 9 parade in Moscow. The document was distributed by official Ukrainian media on the evening of May 8, 2026.

Commenting on this decree, Russian Presidential Press Secretary Dmitry Peskov stated:

"Woe to anyone who tries to mock Victory Day. That's their misfortune."

Peskov emphasized that Russia does not need anyone's permission to hold its own festive events.

“We don’t need anyone’s permission,” — the Kremlin representative summed up.

Earlier, on May 8, US President Donald Trump announced a three-day ceasefire between Russia and Ukraine for May 9, 10, and 11, which includes a complete cessation of hostilities and a 1000-for-1000 prisoner exchange. Russian Presidential Aide Yuri Ushakov confirmed that the ceasefire, previously announced by Russia for May 8 and 9, had been extended until May 11 at Trump's initiative.