PUTIN: ‘DON’T RAIN DRONES ON OUR PARADE’: Russian President Vladimir Putin’s declaration of a three-day unilateral ceasefire around Moscow’s celebration of victory in World War II is being seen by Ukraine and the West as a ploy to create the appearance of a willingness to seek peace while continuing to prepare for a summer offensive.

In a presidential order released by the Kremlin, Putin says that “guided by humanitarian motives,” he’s announcing a ceasefire for “the celebrations of the 80th anniversary of Victory in the Great Patriotic War,” as Russia calls World War II, from May 8 to May 11.