Russian President Vladimir Putin announced a 32-hour ceasefire in Ukraine for the Orthodox Easter weekend, starting Saturday at 4 p.m. and lasting through Sunday. The decree, released by the Kremlin, calls for Russian forces to cease hostilities in all directions, while remaining prepared for potential provocations.
The announcement followed an earlier call from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy for a pause in fighting to observe the holiday. Ukrainian officials have urged Russia to extend the ceasefire and restart peace talks, though skepticism remains among citizens in Kyiv and Moscow regarding lasting peace.
Russia has previously rejected broader ceasefire proposals, opting instead for short, unilateral truces while insisting on a comprehensive settlement. Similar ceasefires announced in the past have been marred by accusations of violations from both sides.
Zelenskyy had proposed a temporary truce over a week ago, stating a need for “an Easter without threats.” Despite stalled diplomacy and ongoing battles along the 1,250-kilometer front line, both Moscow and Kyiv have signaled openness to this short Easter truce.