'Political game': political scientist explains why Putin needs three-day truce

He shared the information with Espreso TV.

"What’s the key issue right now? Why does Putin need this three-day truce? Not so Ukrainian drones don't attack Red Square. Everyone knows that strikes on Red Square, where foreign leaders will be present, wouldn’t be the best move for Ukraine. Of course, it would be spectacular, but most likely, no one would do it, since foreign leaders — who’ve already announced their visits — could be harmed. That’s not the reason," Saakyan emphasized.

According to the political scientist, Putin needs security guarantees during the parade on Red Square.

“Xi Jinping’s visit is scheduled for May 7-10, and other leaders are expected on May 8-9. If there are no security guarantees, some of them may not come for a formal reason — it’s dangerous, so our leader won’t go. Putin needs Ukraine to take on obligations regarding security guarantees so these leaders can attend. This is a political game now, because for the first time in years of war, Putin can’t ensure security in Moscow or invite foreign leaders. He needs Ukraine to provide a corridor for this; otherwise, the airports will be closed,” Saakyan explained.

• UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer spoke with French President Emmanuel Macron to discuss the idea of a 30-day ceasefire in Ukraine.