Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky on Thursday warned Russia’s allies against attending its May 9 World War II victory parade, as Moscow doubled down on its threat to strike Kyiv on the day.

Moscow has unilaterally declared a ceasefire from May 8 to 10 in its war on Ukraine but the Russian army has urged residents to leave Kyiv in case of a potential retaliatory strike on the day.

“We have also received messages from some states close to Russia, saying that their representatives plan to be in Moscow,” said Zelensky, speaking in central Kyiv in a regular video address.

“A strange desire … in these days. We do not recommend it.”

Ukraine had proposed a counter-truce from May 6, blasting Russia’s move as a propaganda measure to protect the parade – one of the most important patriotic events for Russian leader Vladimir Putin.

“They want from Ukraine a permit to hold their parade, so that they can go out onto the square safely for one hour once a year, and then go on killing,” said Zelensky.