At least seven people were killed and 26 injured as Russia and Ukraine launched targeted each other overnight in an escalating round of tit-for-tat strikes, authorities in both countries said.

The attacks on Moscow come days before a Putin-announced three-day ceasefire, and a major parade in the Russian capital.

Ukraine launched a large drone attack overnight on Russia that led to the country closing several airports in and around Moscow. More than 100 drones hit targets across 11 regions in Russia on Tuesday,

Victory Day is the annual commemoration of Nazi Germany's defeat during World War II. This year marks the 80th anniversary of the Victory Day celebrations. Putin typically uses the day to show off Russia's military power and invites foreign leaders to a parade in Red Square in Moscow.

In a statement on Monday, Ukraine said: "Nine months after the start of the Kursk operation, Ukraine's Defence Forces maintain a military presence on the territory of Russia's Kur

President Vladimir Putin said in remarks published on Sunday that Russia had sufficient strength and resources to take the war in Ukraine to its logical conclusion, though he hoped that there would be no need to use nuclear weapons.

Russian President Vladimir Putin says there has been no need to use nuclear weapons in the war in Ukraine and expressed hope that such a scenario will not arise.

Says Russia will achieve its aims in Ukraine Putin hopes there is no need to use nuclear weapons Speaks beside a portrait of Tsar Alexander III MOSCOW, May 4 (Reuters) - President Vladimir Putin said in remarks published on Sunday that Russia had sufficient strength and resources to take the war in Ukraine to its logical conclusion,