In a significant development, Russia has agreed to a truce for Orthodox Easter, with President Vladimir Putin ordering a ceasefire 'in all directions' this weekend. This declaration follows repeated calls from Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelensky for peace, which had previously been ignored by the Kremlin.
Putin's announcement specifies that the ceasefire would commence at 16:00 local time (14:00 BST) on April 11 and continue through Easter Sunday. He also urged Ukraine to follow Russia's example during this period and announced that Russian forces would be prepared for any 'provocations or aggressive actions'.
Despite the order, Zelensky highlighted Ukraine's readiness for 'symmetrical steps,' asserting, 'People need an Easter free from threats and real movement toward peace.' Earlier in the week, he had asked the US to relay a proposal for a holiday truce to Moscow.
The fighting has been relentless in eastern Ukraine, with soldiers enduring constant attacks from drones, while the general population remains under the threat of air raids daily. Many civilians have met tragic fates due to missile strikes, adding to the urgent desire for a peaceful respite. However, skepticism surrounds the announcement, as Ukrainians doubt the potential for a lasting peace, recalling previous ceasefires that often fell short.
Zelensky's focus remains on negotiating a permanent end to the conflict, as Moscow insists upon reaching a peace deal first, leading to accusations from Kyiv that Russia is unserious about halting the fighting. The situation continues to challenge both nations as they navigate this complex landscape.
