Russia Threatens Strikes on Kyiv Centre, 70 Killed in Pre-Victory Day Escalation (euobserver.com)

• At least 70 civilians killed in five days before Victory Day
• Russia accuses Ukraine of plotting to bomb Moscow Victory Day parade
• Moscow threatens strikes on Kyiv government district

"In the week before the 9 May WWII Victory Day commemorations, Russia dramatically escalated its military campaign against Ukraine. Over five days, at least 70 civilians were killed in intensified aerial attacks. Simultaneously, Russian officials accused Ukraine of plotting to bomb the Moscow Victory Day parade and warned of retaliatory strikes on the centre of Kyiv, targeting government buildings. The Kremlin frames its threats as preemptive defence, while Ukraine denies the accusations. This escalation marks one of the deadliest pre-anniversary periods since the war began."