Following extensive conflict spanning over three years, Russian President Vladimir Putin has declared a brief humanitarian pause in the ongoing war with Ukraine. This announcement, relayed by the Kremlin on Saturday, represents a significant development amidst the protracted struggle.
The devastating consequences of the war have been profound, resulting in the loss of countless lives – estimates suggest tens of thousands impacted on both sides of the conflict.
“Driven by considerations regarding human welfare, the Russian side is announcing an Easter truce, effective from 6:00 PM to midnight, transitioning from Sunday to Monday,” stated President Putin during a video address released by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. “I am ordering a cessation of all military operations throughout this period.”
The video featured President Putin alongside Valery Gerasimov, Chief of the General Staff. Immediately following the announcement, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy responded with a stark assessment.
“This latest attempt to manipulate human lives—air raid sirens are currently active across Ukraine,” Zelenskyy communicated via X, providing an update on military deployments. The precise implications of the declared truce remained ambiguous at that time.
Further complicating the situation, former President Donald Trump had previously announced a planned minerals agreement with Ukraine slated for signing next Thursday. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent subsequently revised this timeline, indicating a likely completion date of April 26th. The specifics surrounding this deal remain largely undisclosed, though reports from Bloomberg suggest a reduction in U.S. demands regarding repayment of aid—originally totaling $300 billion, now scaled down to $100 billion.
Trump further emphasized the potential for inaction on peace efforts if Russia refused to cooperate, stating, “If one party makes it exceedingly difficult, we’ll simply say they are ‘foolish’ and ‘horrible,’ and we’ll disengage. Hopefully, this won’t be necessary.”
Ukrainian forces continue to engage in active combat operations. According to reports, battles are ongoing in the Kursk region, with Ukrainian troops maintaining their positions. Furthermore, Ukrainian military personnel have reportedly advanced within the Belgorod region, expanding their control.
The Russian Defense Ministry reported that its forces successfully displaced Ukrainian troops from a remaining foothold in Russia’s Kursk region – a location where an unexpected incursion occurred last year.
