Russia confirms two-day ceasefire in Ukraine for Victory Day commemorations
via SeneNews1 min read
Russia has confirmed a two-day ceasefire in Ukraine, effective from midnight Moscow time on Friday 21:00 GMT Thursday, to mark the 1945 victory against Nazi Germany. Russian presidential spokesman Dmitry Peskov stated that the ceasefire would cover May 8 and 9. This announcement follows an earlier declaration by Kyiv of its own ceasefire, which took effect on Wednesday, with Ukraine accusing Moscow of rejecting it by continuing attacks. Peskov simply noted that the Russian side had no reaction to Kyiv's announcement. He also mentioned that Russian security services have implemented "additional measures" to ensure the smooth running of Saturday's commemorations across the country, citing a "terrorist threat" from Ukraine. Peskov also addressed recent internet outages in Moscow, describing them as "necessary" to ensure citizen safety. Russia had previously urged foreign embassies to evacuate personnel and citizens from Kyiv, warning of "inevitable retaliatory strikes" if Ukraine disrupted the Victory Day celebrations on May 9.
Free daily or weekly digest of the most important stories from across 18 African countries. No spam, unsubscribe any time.
This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by SeneNews.
Ismaïla Sarr continues his strong performance in the Conference League for Crystal Palace F.C., scoring against FC Shakhtar Donetsk. The Senegalese winger entered the match at the start of the second half and netted a crucial goal, bringing his total to nine goals in the competition. This goal helped Crystal Palace secure a 2-1 victory over Shakhtar Donetsk.
Real Madrid has confirmed an internal incident involving players Aurélien Tchouaméni and Fede Valverde, following reports in the Spanish press. Tensions reportedly began the day before the incident, escalating during a training session with heated exchanges and an electric atmosphere. Media sources indicate mutual accusations, including alleged press leaks, which one player reportedly denied. The situation culminated in an incident in the locker room, despite attempts by teammates to de-escalate. Club staff intervened to restore calm. Real Madrid has announced a disciplinary procedure to investigate the facts, with potential decisions to follow the internal inquiry. The club also released a statement regarding Fede Valverde's health, mentioning medical care and strict monitoring, without providing further details on his condition. The sports management will now decide on potential sanctions for both players.
Pape Thiaw, the coach of the Senegal national football team, has announced an upcoming video where he will discuss his first experience leading the Lions during the Africa Cup of Nations. In a social media post, the Senegalese coach described his time during the continental competition as an "exceptional adventure." He stated, "It is often said that there are several stories within a great Story. I have decided to tell you mine," adding the title "The Lion's Den." Through this announcement, Pape Thiaw suggests he will soon share behind-the-scenes insights into his journey with the national team, including emotions, challenges, and significant moments experienced within the Lions' den. This statement is highly anticipated by Senegalese supporters, who are eager to hear the coach's perspective on the continental campaign and his experience at the helm of Senegal.
Must ReadSenegalese football fans are concerned about Kalidou Koulibaly's availability for the 2026 World Cup. The defender, a key player for the Lions for over ten years, has been sidelined since April 8 after sustaining a thigh injury during training with Al Hilal. His coach, Simone Inzaghi, described the contusion, aggravated by an unusual subcutaneous hematoma, as a unique injury he had not seen in 30 years. Koulibaly, 34, with 102 caps, views this World Cup as his last. Neither his club nor the Senegalese Football Federation has provided a return date. Examinations in Spain revealed a grade 2 quadriceps muscle tear, requiring extensive rehabilitation. This situation is particularly worrying as the World Cup 2026 approaches, with Senegal's first match against France scheduled for June 16. In Koulibaly's potential absence, coach Pape Thiaw would need to rebuild the defense around Moussa Niakhaté. Potential replacements include Mamadou Sarr, Abdoulaye Seck, and Nobel Mendy. Young talents like Malang Sarr, Moustapha Mbow, Arouna Sangante, and Ousmane Diao are also being considered. An experienced option could be the return of Abdou Diallo, a versatile defender who was instrumental in the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations victory.