Russia and Ukraine agree to truce for Orthodox Easter

Vladimir Putin has directed Russian forces to halt hostilities “in all directions” during the Easter weekend, marking a temporary pause in the war as part of a truce agreement. This decision follows repeated appeals from Volodymyr Zelensky, who had previously urged Moscow to consider a ceasefire. While the Kremlin initially disregarded his calls, the latest move aims to provide a brief respite for both nations.

The truce, effective from 16:00 local time on Saturday, April 11, through Easter Sunday, includes a promise from Russia to monitor “possible enemy provocations” and “aggressive actions.” Zelensky swiftly responded on X, emphasizing Ukraine’s preparedness for “symmetrical steps” to counter any Russian maneuvers. He highlighted the need for an Easter free from threats and a clear path toward peace, suggesting that Russia might avoid renewed strikes after the holiday.

“People need an Easter free from threats and real movement toward peace,” Zelensky wrote. “Russia has a chance not to return to strikes after Easter as well.”

Despite the truce, Ukrainian skepticism remains high. The country has faced relentless attacks from Russian drones along the eastern frontline, with civilians caught in the crossfire. Recent incidents, such as a drone strike on a bus in Nikopol and a missile hitting a home in Zhytomyr, underscore the ongoing dangers. Even as the ceasefire begins, air raid sirens blare in Kyiv, signaling that peace is not yet secured.

Ukraine has also intensified its drone strikes on Russian infrastructure, particularly targeting energy exports. Russia claims its residential areas were damaged in these attacks, adding to the complexity of the truce. Previous attempts at temporary pauses, like the “energy truce” in early 2023 and the unilateral ceasefire in May for the Soviet victory anniversary, were short-lived and followed by renewed violence.

While Kyiv seeks a full and stable ceasefire as a prerequisite for peace talks, Moscow insists on reaching a deal first. This stance has led to accusations from Ukraine that Russia is not committed to ending the war. Mediation efforts by the United States have stalled since Donald Trump redirected attention to the Middle East, leaving the path to resolution uncertain.