Russia and Ukraine agree to truce for Orthodox Easter
Russia and Ukraine Agree to Truce for Orthodox Easter
Russian President Vladimir Putin has directed his military to halt hostilities “in all directions” during the Orthodox Easter holiday weekend, marking a truce that will last from 16:00 local time on Saturday, 11 April, through Easter Sunday. This decision follows persistent appeals from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, whose earlier calls for a ceasefire were disregarded by Moscow. Putin emphasized that Ukraine should “follow the example” of Russia, while his forces remain on standby to counter any potential provocations or aggressive moves.
A Ceasefire Amid Ongoing Conflict
The truce comes as Ukrainian troops face relentless attacks by drones along the eastern frontline, where the war has left civilians in constant danger. Despite the pause, Zelensky expressed cautious optimism, noting that people need “an Easter free from threats and real movement toward peace.” He also hinted that Russia might avoid resuming strikes after the holiday, though skepticism lingers among Ukrainians. “Russia has a chance not to return to strikes after Easter as well,” he added.
“People need an Easter free from threats and real movement toward peace,” Zelensky wrote on X.
Earlier this week, Zelensky urged the United States to convey a proposal for a holiday truce to Moscow, signaling his intent to take the first step toward de-escalation. While a temporary halt in fighting would provide much-needed relief for soldiers and civilians alike, the effectiveness of the truce remains uncertain. Zelensky has previously criticized Moscow for exploiting similar pauses, such as the “energy truce” announced earlier this year, which only lasted long enough for Russia to prepare subsequent strikes.
Recent attacks, including a drone strike on a bus in Nikopol and a missile hitting a home in Zhytomyr, highlight the ongoing risks. The sirens in Kyiv sounded again shortly after the truce was announced, underscoring the persistent threat. Meanwhile, Ukraine has escalated its drone operations against Russian energy infrastructure, targeting exports in a series of intense strikes. Russia claims residential areas were also damaged during these assaults.
Peace Talks on Hold
Despite multiple rounds of negotiations mediated by the U.S., the process has stalled since Donald Trump redirected focus to the Middle East. Kyiv advocates for a comprehensive and lasting ceasefire as a prerequisite for peace talks, while Moscow insists on securing the deal first. This divide has fueled accusations that Russia is not genuinely committed to ending the war, leaving the truce’s success in doubt.
