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Ukraine Skeptical as Putin Announces Short Easter Ceasefire Amid Continued Attacks
Russian President Vladimir Putin declared a short ceasefire over Orthodox Easter, promising a halt to military action in Ukraine from Saturday evening to Monday night. But Ukraine isn’t buying it.
The truce, announced by the Kremlin, was supposed to show Russia’s willingness to seek peace. Putin claimed it would also test whether Kyiv genuinely wants to negotiate. However, Ukrainian leaders have raised doubts, pointing to past Russian actions that didn’t match their words.
Airstrikes Continue Despite Ceasefire Announcement
Within hours of Putin’s announcement, air raid sirens blared across Ukrainian cities, including Kyiv. Reports of Russian drone attacks followed, with Ukrainian military officials urging civilians to stay sheltered. On the frontlines, Ukrainian soldiers reported no decrease in fighting.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky slammed the announcement on X (formerly Twitter), saying the so-called truce was another manipulation by Moscow. He emphasized that Russian drones were still flying over Ukraine, even as Putin spoke of peace.
U.S. Frustration with Russia Grows
The timing of Putin’s truce has also raised eyebrows in Washington. A day earlier, the U.S. warned it may soon step back from trying to broker peace, citing Russia’s lack of cooperation. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the U.S. would give diplomacy only a few more days unless serious progress is made.
Russia has yet to agree to a 30-day ceasefire proposed by the U.S. and accepted by Ukraine. Ukrainian Foreign Minister Andrii Sybiha accused Russia of playing political games and said the proposal for a long-term ceasefire has been on the table since March.
A Strategic Move by Moscow?
Military experts believe Putin’s short truce may be less about peace and more about gaining an edge. Ukraine previously rejected similar short-term ceasefires, suspecting Russia of using the pause to regroup and reposition troops. In fact, Russia made similar moves in 2023 during Orthodox Christmas.
Just hours before the ceasefire, Russia claimed it pushed Ukrainian forces out of one of their few remaining positions in the Kursk region, near the Russian border—highlighting the ongoing intensity of the conflict.
Large-Scale Prisoner Exchange Offers Brief Hope
Despite rising tensions, a major prisoner swap brought a rare moment of relief. On Saturday, Ukraine secured the return of 277 soldiers, while Russia recovered 246 of its troops. Additionally, 31 wounded Ukrainian soldiers were exchanged for 15 injured Russian servicemen. The deal was facilitated by the United Arab Emirates.
War Drags On with No End in Sight
The conflict, which began with Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022, has shown little sign of slowing. While Ukraine recently made gains in Toretsk, Russia continues to advance in areas like Kupyansk and Kurakhove. The eastern front remains largely frozen, with neither side making major breakthroughs.
