“We hope that the Ukrainian side will follow suit.”
He added that “human life is incomparably more valuable than the ‘celebration’ of any anniversary”.
“It is time for Russian leaders to take real steps to end their war,” he said.
The Russian Defence Ministry said in the lead-up to the parade that it would take measures to ensure the event’s safety.
“If the Kyiv regime attempts to implement its criminal plans to disrupt the celebration of the 81st anniversary of Victory in the Great Patriotic War, the Russian Armed Forces will launch a retaliatory, massive missile strike on the centre of Kyiv,” it said.
“We warn the civilian population of Kyiv and employees of foreign diplomatic missions of the need to leave the city promptly.”
Russia called the ceasefire a precautionary measure given the threat of Ukrainian strikes during the Victory Day anniversary.
Putin said he first suggested a ceasefire last week in a call with US President Donald Trump.
Ukraine said it would await details from the US, and would support a lasting ceasefire and peace settlement between the two nations backed by security guarantees.
Zelenskyy said earlier this week in a meeting with European Union leaders that Russia’s decision not to display military equipment at the parade was due to fear of Ukraine’s drones and proof of the nation’s growing weakness.
“This summer will be a moment when Putin decides what to do next: expand the war or move to diplomacy. And we must push him toward diplomacy,” Zelenskyy said.
“Russia has announced a May 9 parade in Moscow without military equipment.
“If that happens, it will be the first time in many, many years. They cannot afford military equipment – and they fear drones may buzz over Red Square.
“This is telling. It shows they are not strong now,” Zelenskyy said.
