Three-day ceasefire in Ukraine that was unilaterally declared by Russian President Vladimir Putin last month was set to come into effect at 5 p.m. ET on Wednesday (midnight Moscow time), as Russia prepares to mark the anniversary of its World War II Victory Day on Friday.

Ukraine has called the Kremlin’s ceasefire a ruse by Russian president Vladimir Putin to create the impression he wants to end the war, which began when Russia invaded its neighbouring country in February 2022. Mr Zelensky said Russia had given no response to the 30-day offer except for new strikes.

Hardly any other country marks the end of World War II with the same fanfare and fervor as Russia, for which the victory over Nazi Germany 80 years ago remains a source of immense pride and a defining moment of history.