Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Thursday warned allies of Russia against attending its May 9 WWII victory parade in Moscow, calling it a 'strange desire' and advising against participation.

Russia had unilaterally declared a ceasefire from May 8 to 10, and Ukraine followed with a counter-truce starting May 6. However, Zelenskyy said Moscow disregarded the goodwill gesture and launched a new wave of attacks.

'They want from Ukraine a permit to hold their parade, so that they can go out onto the square safely for one hour once a year, and then go on killing,' Zelenskyy said.

Russian authorities expressed concern about possible Ukrainian attacks. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov said additional security measures were being taken due to the 'rather complex operational situation.' State media reported that all mobile internet and text messaging services will be shut down in Moscow on May 9.

For the first time in nearly two decades, the parade will not feature tanks, missiles, or other military equipment, with authorities citing the 'current operational situation' as the reason.

Meanwhile, Ukraine's top negotiator Rustem Umerov met with US counterparts in Miami in an attempt to revive talks to end the war. Zelenskyy said the focus is on humanitarian aid and reinvigorating the diplomatic process.

Source: www.dw.com