Moscow: Russian President Vladimir Putin has declared a temporary ceasefire in Ukraine to mark Orthodox Easter, urging Kyiv to observe the same. The truce is set to last from 6:00 PM local time on Saturday until midnight on April 21.
The Russian Ministry of Defence confirmed the pause in military operations, citing “humanitarian considerations.” However, Moscow warned that troops would remain on alert to counter any provocations or violations.
The announcement comes amid mounting international pressure for peace. U.S. President Donald Trump recently warned that Washington would “take a pass” on mediation efforts if talks stall. Secretary of State Marco Rubio echoed the sentiment, emphasizing limited patience from the U.S.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has yet to respond. The Kremlin expressed hope that Kyiv would reciprocate the gesture.
Meanwhile, Russia has placed conditions on a broader, U.S.-proposed 30-day ceasefire. Ukraine had already agreed to the plan, with Washington declaring the next move rests with Moscow.
