Maritime Threats Emerge as Mines Target Oil Tankers Near Russian Hubs

Ukrainian drone strikes prompted significant disruptions at Moscow's airports for the third consecutive day, coinciding with preparations for Russia's annual Victory Day military parade, scheduled for May 9. Over 100 Aeroflot flights were canceled and more than 140 delayed due to heightened security concerns regarding the drone threats, according to the airline and Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin. This year’s celebrations, marking the 80th anniversary of victory over Nazi Germany, are particularly sensitive as foreign dignitaries, including Chinese President Xi Jinping, arrive for the events. In response to the drone strikes, Russia's air defenses reportedly thwarted multiple attacks aimed at the capital. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy cautioned foreign officials against visiting Russia during the celebrations, citing security risks and potential provocations by the Kremlin. Meanwhile, flight restrictions impacted approximately 350 flights, affecting around 60,000 passengers. Amid these tensions, the Russian military conducted its own airstrike campaign in Ukraine, resulting in casualties in Kyiv, where at least two individuals were killed and eight wounded. Ukrainian officials reported that Russian forces targeted residential buildings with missiles and drones.

Chinese President Xi Jinping commenced a four-day visit to Russia on May 7, coinciding with Ukrainian drone strikes on Moscow. The attacks, which were repelled by Russian air defense units, prompted the temporary closure of several airports in the capital, as reported by Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin. Xi Jinping is in Russia to attend the Victory Day parade, commemorating the end of World War II, and to meet with President Vladimir Putin for discussions set to cover over a dozen cooperation agreements. This trip marks Xi's 11th visit to Russia, reflecting a deepening partnership bolstered during a period of strained relations between Russia and Western nations. The Russian Foreign Ministry termed Xi's visit "one of the central events in Russian-Chinese relations this year," highlighting plans for the Power of Siberia 2 gas pipeline, projected to transport 50 billion cubic meters of gas annually to China. Bilateral trade has surged to $245 billion in 2024, up 66% from 2021, reportedly providing Russia with much-needed economic support amid ongoing sanctions.

In a recent statement, Russian President Vladimir Putin emphasized that Russia possesses the capability to end its military operations in Ukraine while asserting that nuclear weapons have not been deemed necessary in this conflict. Speaking during a broadcast on state television, Putin expressed hope that such weapons would remain unused. He stated, “We have enough strength and means to bring what was started in 2022 to a logical conclusion with the outcome Russia requires." Putin's comments come amidst increasing tensions, coupled with ongoing debates regarding ceasefire proposals. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy voiced skepticism over Russia's announcement of a 72-hour ceasefire that coincides with the Victory Day celebrations, labeling it a strategy to create an illusion of peace. Zelenskyy advocates for a more substantial 30-day ceasefire to facilitate genuine negotiation efforts. Meanwhile, violence continues, as evidenced by a drone attack in Kyiv that resulted in injuries to 11 individuals, including two children, while the Ukrainian air force reported intercepting numerous Russian drones. Russia's Defense Ministry reported successfully downing multiple Ukrainian drones, illustrating the ongoing hostilities despite diplomatic overtures.