Russia and Ukraine agree to truce for Orthodox Easter

Russia and Ukraine agree to truce for Orthodox Easter

Russia and Ukraine have reached a temporary agreement for a pause in hostilities during the Orthodox Easter holiday, as Vladimir Putin ordered his troops to halt attacks “in all directions” for the weekend. This development follows persistent appeals from Volodymyr Zelensky, who had previously urged a ceasefire that Russia had disregarded. The truce, effective from 16:00 local time on Saturday, 11 April, through Easter Sunday, includes a conditional promise from Moscow that Ukraine should “follow the example” of its own actions. Putin emphasized readiness to counter “possible enemy provocations” and “aggressive actions” during the break.

“People need an Easter free from threats and real movement toward peace,” Zelensky stated on X, noting that Russia has a chance to avoid resuming strikes after the holiday.

Zelensky’s comments came after he had sought U.S. assistance to present a proposal for a holiday truce to Moscow, aiming to signal a shift in momentum. The truce would provide relief to soldiers enduring relentless assaults along the eastern frontline, where attack drones have been a constant threat. Civilians across Ukraine would also benefit from a quieter period, as air raid sirens and missile strikes remain part of daily life. Recent incidents, such as a drone attack on a bus in Nikopol and a missile strike in Zhytomyr, underscore the ongoing risks.

Meanwhile, Ukraine has intensified its drone strikes against Russian energy infrastructure, targeting key export sites. Russia reported damage to residential areas, suggesting the conflict remains active even during the proposed pause. Skepticism looms among Ukrainians, who question the truce’s durability. Last year, Russia claimed an “energy truce” during winter, but it only delayed further attacks. Similarly, in May, a unilateral ceasefire for Soviet victory anniversary celebrations was quickly violated by Ukraine.

Despite multiple rounds of negotiations with the U.S. as mediator, the peace process has stalled since Donald Trump redirected focus to the Middle East. Kyiv insists a full and stable ceasefire is essential before discussions on ending the invasion can progress, while Moscow demands agreement on the peace terms first. The Easter truce, though a step forward, may not resolve these deepening disagreements.