Putin Imposes Temporary Ceasefire for Easter in Ukraine

Vladimir Putin, the President of Russia, has proclaimed an 'Easter ceasefire' in the ongoing conflict with Ukraine, scheduled to last from Saturday evening until early Monday.

In a broadcast message from the Kremlin, Putin stated, 'On the basis of humanitarian considerations, from 6 p.m. on Saturday to midnight on Sunday, the Russian side will impose an Easter ceasefire.' He further announced, 'During this interval, I direct all combats to halt. We expect the Ukrainian forces to follow this precedent. Meanwhile, our troops should remain vigilant, ready to tackle any breaches or provocations by the adversary.'

The ceasefire was initially made public during a session between Putin and the Russian Chief of the General Staff, Valery Gerasimov, as reported by the Kremlin.

According to a statement by Russia's Defense Ministry, the ceasefire is intended 'for humanitarian aims and will be adhered to by Russian forces, contingent on reciprocal compliance by Kiev.'

Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelenskyy denounced the ceasefire declaration, labeling it as another of 'Putin's attempts to gamble with human lives.' Zelenskyy noted that 'air raids have commenced across Ukraine', indicating Russian drone attacks recorded in the skies before the official start of the truce.

The term 'Shaheeds', which Zelenskyy addressed, seemingly refers to Shahed drones actively deployed by Russia during the conflict.

The announcement occurred amidst discussions involving President Trump's administration, indicating a potential shift in focus if diplomatic progress between Russia and Ukraine remains stalled.

International Reactions

In Paris, a comment made by a U.S. official suggested the U.S. might 'proceed forward' from peace deliberations unless tangible results manifest soon. The official emphasized, 'We must determine the feasibility of these talks swiftly. Should they prove futile, our priorities lie elsewhere.'

Conversations continue in the backdrop between U.S. and Russian officials. However, no direct dialogue between Trump and Putin is currently planned, a Kremlin spokesperson confirmed.

Military Developments

Russian military sources claim their forces have ousted Ukrainian troops from one of their remaining strongholds in the Kursk region of Russia, securing control over Oleshnya village near the Ukraine border.

Further reports from the Russian agency TASS reveal ongoing conflicts in Gornal village, approximately seven miles from Oleshnya, where Russian forces endeavor to expel Ukrainian soldiers.