Russia and Ukraine agree to truce for Orthodox Easter
Russia and Ukraine agree to truce for Orthodox Easter
President Vladimir Putin has directed Russian forces to implement a pause in hostilities across all fronts during the Orthodox Easter holiday. The decision follows repeated appeals from Volodymyr Zelensky, who had previously urged Moscow to halt attacks. Despite earlier dismissals, the truce spans from 16:00 local time on Saturday, 11 April, to Easter Sunday. Putin emphasized that Ukraine should “follow the example” of Russia, while remaining vigilant against potential disruptions.
Skepticism and Challenges
Ukrainians remain cautious about the truce’s effectiveness, citing past instances where Moscow’s pauses were short-lived. Earlier this year, Russia claimed a “energy truce” to pause strikes on Ukraine’s power infrastructure, only to resume attacks shortly after. Similarly, a May ceasefire marked the Soviet victory anniversary but saw numerous violations. Zelensky, meanwhile, has expressed readiness for “symmetrical steps,” highlighting the need for a stable ceasefire to pave the way for peace negotiations.
“People need an Easter free from threats and real movement toward peace,” Zelensky wrote on X. “Russia has a chance not to return to strikes after Easter as well.”
The truce offers a brief reprieve for soldiers on Ukraine’s eastern frontline, where drone assaults and missile strikes persist. Civilians, too, face ongoing danger, as evidenced by recent attacks: a drone strike in Nikopol killed several in a bus, while a missile landed near a home in Zhytomyr, claiming a woman’s life. Even as the ceasefire begins, air raid sirens in Kyiv signal continued tensions.
Ukraine has intensified its drone campaigns against Russian targets, focusing on energy infrastructure. Russia reports damage to residential areas, suggesting the conflict remains dynamic. While the Easter pause is a step forward, Kyiv argues it must be followed by a comprehensive agreement to end the war. Moscow, however, insists on securing the peace deal first, drawing accusations of insincerity from Ukrainian leaders.
Ongoing Negotiations
Several rounds of discussions have taken place, with the United States serving as an intermediary. Yet, the process has stalled since Donald Trump redirected focus to the Middle East. Zelensky’s proposal for a holiday truce aims to set the stage for broader negotiations, but its success hinges on Russia’s commitment to sustained calm.
