Russia rejected Ukraine’s ceasefire extension after Easter, resuming deadly strikes in Kherson and Sumy, killing dozens.


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Russia Ends Easter Ceasefire and Resumes Attacks on Ukraine

Russia and Ukraine temporarily paused hostilities for a 30-hour ceasefire during the Orthodox Easter holiday. This short break was meant to allow civilians to observe religious traditions and to create space for humanitarian aid efforts. Ukraine had hoped to build on the truce, with President Volodymyr Zelenskyy proposing an extension of 30 days as a step toward renewed peace talks.

Russia Rejects Extension, Strikes Resume

However, the Russian government rejected the proposal for a longer ceasefire. Just hours after the holiday truce ended, Russian forces resumed military operations, launching drone attacks and artillery fire, especially in southern Ukraine’s Kherson region. Ukrainian officials reported that three civilians were killed in the attacks.

Escalation in Sumy and Other Regions

In addition to the renewed assault on Kherson, Russian missile strikes also hit the northeastern city of Sumy. These strikes reportedly killed 35 people, including two children, making it one of the deadliest incidents in Ukraine this year.

Russia’s Strategy: Force Over Dialogue

The rejection of the ceasefire extension reflects Moscow's current military strategy, which prioritizes territorial gains over diplomatic engagement. Russian officials have accused Ukraine of using civilian sites for military purposes, a claim Kyiv denies. While Ukraine remains open to dialogue, Zelenskyy has stressed that peace requires more than words—it demands action and genuine commitment.

Civilian Toll Continues to Rise

The resumption of attacks following the short truce highlights the fragile nature of any potential peace deal. Civilians remain the most affected, caught between ongoing military operations and delayed diplomatic solutions. Aid groups have called for stronger international efforts to protect non-combatants and support humanitarian access.

Global Response

World leaders and humanitarian organizations have condemned the renewed violence, urging both sides to return to the negotiating table. However, with Russia showing no signs of slowing its offensive, many fear that hopes for a peaceful resolution may remain out of reach.

FAQ

The ceasefire was observed for the Orthodox Easter holiday to allow civilians time for religious observance and to create a window for humanitarian aid.

Russia rejected Ukraine’s offer to extend the ceasefire, likely due to its military focus on gaining ground rather than engaging in diplomacy.

Fresh strikes were reported in Kherson and Sumy. In Sumy, a missile strike killed 35 people, including children.

President Zelenskyy reiterated his willingness to negotiate but emphasized that peace requires sincere actions, not just temporary pauses.

Global leaders and aid groups have condemned the renewed violence and called for renewed peace efforts.

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