May 9 Moscow Victory Parade Gets Green Light from Zelenskyy in New Decree

Presidential Decree from Ukraine

According to ХВИЛЯ: Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has signed Decree No. 374/2026, authorizing the May 9, 2026 parade in Moscow and removing Red Square from the list of targets for Ukrainian military operations. This decision is tied to a three-day ceasefire agreement and a prisoner exchange on a 1,000-for-1,000 basis.

The decree, officially titled 'On Holding the Parade in Moscow,' was signed on May 8, 2026, and published on the Ukrainian presidential website. The exclusion of Red Square from Ukraine's weapons deployment plan takes effect at 10:00 AM Kyiv time on May 9, 2026. The specific geographic coordinates of this area are:

• 55.754413, 37.617733
• 55.755205, 37.619181
• 55.753351, 37.622854
• 55.752504, 37.621538

Three Days of Peace

U.S. President Donald Trump announced a three-day ceasefire between Ukraine and Russia, set to run from May 9 through May 11. Zelenskyy confirmed Kyiv's approval of this measure, stating it was adopted 'in response to numerous requests, for humanitarian purposes as outlined in negotiations with the American side on May 8, 2026.'

As Zelenskyy put it, 'Red Square matters less to Ukraine than the lives of Ukrainian prisoners who can be brought home.'

This decree reflects Ukraine's push to de-escalate the conflict and its willingness to engage in dialogue with Russia-a potentially significant step toward stabilizing the region. The prisoner swap and ceasefire are critical elements that could pave the way for further negotiations and a broader peace process. In the context of ongoing international backing, such moves may also shape Ukraine's relationship with Western allies, particularly the United States.

As the situation evolves, it's important to note that while President Zelenskyy has authorized the May 9 parade, he has also stated there have been no formal ceasefire proposals submitted for this date. This highlights the complexities surrounding the ceasefire and ongoing negotiations, underscoring the delicate balance Ukraine seeks to maintain amidst international scrutiny.