Zelenskyy: Russia fears drones may fly over Red Square on May 9

If Russia holds its May 9 parade in Moscow without military equipment, it will mean that Russians fear drones may fly over Red Square, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said.

"Russia has announced it will hold a May 9 parade in Moscow without military equipment. If this happens, it will be the first time in many, many years that they cannot afford military equipment and fear that drones may fly over Red Square. This says a lot. It shows that they are not strong right now," Zelenskyy said, speaking at the European Political Community summit in Yerevan.

It is therefore necessary to continue pressuring Russia through sanctions and to continue supporting Ukraine, the president said.

Zelenskyy stressed the need for new PURL program packages in May. "This will help us protect ourselves from ballistic threats. And I believe that Europe must be able to independently produce everything necessary to protect against any threats – against all ballistic attacks and any other weapons," he said.

The Ukrainian head of state also called on leaders to move toward cooperation within the drone deal framework, as "reliable protection is needed across all of Europe against drones and potential attacks in the air, at sea and on land."

Zelenskyy also said an effective diplomatic format needs to be found, and that Europe must have a seat at the table in any negotiations.

"We are in contact with the United States and understand their views and positions, but it would be good to develop a unified European position for negotiations with the Russians," he concluded.