MOSCOW: Russia has sent an evacuation warning to foreign diplomats in Kyiv, stating it would attack the city if Ukraine disrupts World War II commemorations in Moscow this weekend.

The Russian government did not elaborate on its threat and as of now, there has been no response from Ukraine.

Russia marks World War II Victory Day each year on May 9 with a military parade through Red Square.

This year, Russia declared a unilateral ceasefire between May 8 and 9 to coincide with the commemorations.

In a note sent to foreign diplomatic missions and international organizations, Russia warned of a 'retaliatory strike' against decision-making centers in Kyiv if the commemorations are disrupted.

The Ukrainian President, Volodymyr Zelensky, criticized Russia for demanding a ceasefire on May 9, which holds significant importance for Russian President Vladimir Putin.

Zelensky suggested that Moscow was concerned about possible drone activity over Red Square.

He stated that Ukraine proposed its own ceasefire for May 6, which was ignored.

Ukrainian officials reported multiple attacks throughout Wednesday despite the declared ceasefire.

At least four people died in these attacks, including two at a kindergarten in the Sumy region.

Frontline fighting continued with both sides engaging in strikes.

The conflict has escalated significantly, with both sides launching attacks deep into each other's territories.

Kyiv's recent attack on the Russian city of Cheboksary killed two people, creating unease ahead of Russia's May 9 parade, which will see military hardware removed from the procession for the first time in nearly two decades.

Talks to end the war have shown little progress, and instead, tensions continue due to the ongoing conflict between Iran.

Moscow is demanding that Ukraine withdraw from regions claimed by Russia, a condition Kyiv finds unacceptable.