Orthodox Easter Ceasefire Announced
Russian President Vladimir Putin has ordered a 32-hour ceasefire spanning Orthodox Easter celebrations. The pause begins on Saturday, April 11 at 4 p.m. local time (1 p.m. GMT) and extends until midnight on Sunday, April 12 (9 p.m. GMT).
Russia’s Defense Minister Andrei Belousov directed Chief of the General Staff Valery Gerasimov to suspend military operations across all fronts during this period. Troops remain prepared to counter any provocations or aggressive actions from the opposing side.
Zelensky Welcomes Reciprocal Pause
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky confirmed Kyiv’s commitment to the ceasefire. In a Telegram post, he stated, “Ukraine has repeatedly stated that we are ready for reciprocal steps. We proposed a ceasefire during the Easter holiday this year and will act accordingly.”
Zelensky emphasized the need for peace, adding, “People need an Easter without threats and a real move towards peace, and Russia has a chance not to return to attacks even after Easter.”
Similar to Previous Truce
This initiative mirrors a 30-hour ceasefire Putin declared last year, which both sides accused each other of violating. Kremlin officials expressed expectations that Ukraine will mirror Russia’s restraint.
Broader Context and Diplomacy
The announcement follows Moscow’s warnings against Baltic nations permitting Ukrainian drones to use their airspace for strikes into Russia. Meanwhile, Russia’s special envoy Kirill Dmitriev is in the United States, engaging with members of President Donald Trump’s administration. Discussions focus on a potential peace agreement for Ukraine and opportunities for US-Russia economic collaboration.
These talks precede a US decision on extending sanctions relief for Russian oil purchases, set to expire soon. The waiver aims to stabilize global energy markets amid ongoing regional tensions.
