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- Russia declares ceasefire for 8-9 May amid escalating Ukraine conflict
Europe
Russia has declared a unilateral ceasefire with Ukraine from 8-9 May, coinciding with Victory Day commemorations, while threatening a massive missile strike on Kyiv if Ukraine disrupts the event. In response, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy announced his own ceasefire starting 5-6 May.
Britain’s security services have raised the terrorism threat level to “severe”, indicating an attack is “highly likely in the next six months.” This announcement follows a recent conviction related to terrorism, underscoring heightened security concerns within the UK.
France’s Interior Minister, Laurent Nuñez, oversaw a huge free party at a military firing range, drawing 17,000 to 40,000 attendees since Friday. Despite no major incidents, he affirmed the government’s resolve against such events, warning of heightened penalties and ongoing security presence amid safety concerns over unexploded ordnance.
EU Trade Chief Maroš Šefčovič is urging MEPs to advance the EU-US trade deal, following a US request to uphold commitments. The US Supreme Court’s recent ruling on Trump’s tariffs raises concerns about the 2025 agreement’s validity.
Hungarian Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó accused Ukraine of lying and reprimanded Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas during a tense meeting where Budapest exercised its veto powers twice, escalating tensions among EU member states supportive of Ukraine amid ongoing conflicts.
Russia anticipated that Kyiv would collapse within three days, with military experts convinced it was only a matter of time. However, as of 2026, Ukraine remains resilient against the ongoing conflict.
Poland’s Foreign Minister Radosław Sikorski condemned Hungary’s obstruction of EU support for Ukraine, describing it as an “escalation” benefitting Kremlin interests. He called for punitive measures amid concerns over EU unity and security as the situation evolves.
Hungary’s Foreign Minister Péter Szijjártó announced the country’s veto of the €90 billion loan for Ukraine, prompting strong rebukes from other EU nations who view the move as disloyal during ongoing discussions about support for Ukraine.
The European Parliament, led by President Roberta Metsola, has declined a request from the far-right Patriots for Europe group for a minute of silence in memory of Quentin Deranque, due to the session’s focus on the Ukraine war. This decision is significant amid rising political tensions following Deranque’s death.
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