Russia and Ukraine have accused each other of violating separate ceasefires declared by each side to cover the celebrations of the Soviet Union’s victory over Nazi Germany, the BBC reports.
The Russian defence ministry reported more than 1,000 violations in the conflict zone, while Moscow’s mayor said the city had been targeted by drones since the ceasefire began at midnight local time (21:00 GMT Thursday).
Ukraine also said Russia had continued to strike its positions since that time.
Russian President Vladimir Putin announced a ceasefire for 8-9 May ahead of Victory Day celebrations on Saturday. Kyiv had earlier called for an indefinite truce, starting 6 May.
Russia has warned Ukraine not to try to attack the Victory Day parade in Red Square.
Its defence ministry has threatened to launch a “retaliatory, massive missile strike” on the centre of Kyiv if Moscow is attacked. It has warned foreign diplomats to leave the Ukrainian capital ahead of 9 May.
For the first time in nearly two decades there will be no military hardware at the parade, while the Russian capital is on high alert over the fears that Ukraine could try to disrupt the events.
Residents of Moscow and St Petersburg have also been warned their mobile internet access will be limited for security reasons.
