Volodymyr Zelenskyy Says Ukrainian Drones Could Reach Moscow During Victory Day

Volodymyr Zelenskyy said Ukrainian drones could reach Moscow during Russia’s May 9 Victory Day parade, while urging stronger sanctions and European defence cooperation.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has warned that Ukrainian drones could fly over Moscow on May 9, when Russia plans to hold a military parade marking the 81st anniversary of victory in World War II.
Speaking at the 8th European Political Community summit in Yerevan, Armenia, Zelenskyy said Russia’s Victory Day parade is expected to be scaled down this year, with reports suggesting there may be no display of military equipment. He described this as unusual, claiming it could reflect weakening Russian military capacity.
He added that Ukraine’s drone capabilities could potentially reach Moscow during the event, while also stressing the importance of maintaining pressure on Russia through continued sanctions. Zelenskyy thanked European partners for supporting additional sanctions measures.
Turning to broader geopolitical issues, he warned that ongoing tensions in the Middle East involving the United States, Israel, and Iran remain unresolved and could have global consequences, including economic instability and rising living costs. He called for stronger international cooperation in energy and security to prepare for future crises.
Zelenskyy also urged European countries to strengthen their own defence production capabilities, particularly in areas such as drone warfare and protection against aerial, naval, and land-based threats. He proposed expanded cooperation through a “Drone Deal” initiative aimed at joint development and procurement of defence technologies.
In separate Telegram statements, Zelenskyy said he had discussions with European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen on funding schedules for joint drone production and deeper security cooperation between Ukraine and the European Union.
He also met Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico, where talks focused on bilateral cooperation and Ukraine’s path toward EU membership, which Slovakia reportedly supports.
Additionally, Zelenskyy held discussions with Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk on possible peace negotiations with Russia, regional cooperation, and preparations for a future international conference on Ukraine’s reconstruction.