MOSCOW, April 10 (Alliance News): Russia has announced a temporary ceasefire in its war with Ukraine on the occasion of Orthodox Easter, with President Vladimir Putin ordering Russian forces to suspend military operations for a limited period.
According to international media reports, the ceasefire will begin at 4 pm local time on Saturday, April 11, and continue until the end of Easter Sunday.
The announcement follows repeated calls from Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy for a temporary halt in fighting, which had previously not been accepted by the Kremlin.
President Putin said he expects Ukraine to also observe the ceasefire and “mirror” Russia’s decision. He further instructed Russian forces to remain on alert, warning them to be prepared to respond to any possible provocations or aggressive actions from the Ukrainian side.
In response, President Zelenskyy said Ukraine is ready for reciprocal steps, stressing the need for a peaceful Easter period and meaningful progress toward ending the war.
In a post on social media platform X, he emphasized that civilians deserve safety and relief from ongoing hostilities.
Earlier this week, Zelenskyy had urged international partners, including the United States, to communicate a proposal to Moscow for a holiday ceasefire as an initial step toward broader peace efforts.
Analysts say even a short pause in fighting would offer relief to soldiers on the front lines in eastern Ukraine, where drone attacks and heavy clashes continue, as well as to civilians across the country who regularly face air raid sirens and missile strikes.
The development comes amid ongoing international efforts to reduce tensions and explore potential pathways toward a long-term settlement in the conflict.
