Russia’s Putin declares Easter ceasefire in Ukraine conflict

A developing report from the Kremlin states that a unilateral halt to hostilities will start on Saturday at 6 pm local time and continue until midnight on Sunday.

Russian President Vladimir Putin has declared an Easter truce in the conflict in Ukraine, as mentioned by the Kremlin. Ukraine has not yet responded.

Putin, in televised remarks on Saturday while conversing with Russian chief of staff Valery Gerasimov, announced, “From 6:00 pm to midnight on Sunday, the Russian side proclaims an Easter truce.” He expressed hope that Ukraine would also observe a ceasefire to demonstrate its willingness for a peaceful resolution.

While instructing Gerasimov to prepare troops to counter any breaches of the ceasefire by Ukraine, Putin stated that the ceasefire would be for humanitarian reasons and contingent on Ukraine’s compliance.

Last month, following a phone conversation with US President Donald Trump, Putin had consented to refrain from targeting energy infrastructure in Ukraine for 30 days. However, reports indicate that attacks have persisted despite this agreement.

Although Putin did not accept a broader 30-day ceasefire proposal supported by the US, Ukraine has stated its readiness to implement it.

Putin alleged that Ukraine had breached the truce by attacking energy infrastructure over 100 times, but emphasized Russia’s favorable position on the front lines. He reiterated Moscow’s willingness for negotiations and appreciated the diplomatic efforts of the US, China, and other nations in seeking a fair resolution for Ukraine.