Ceasefire for Orthodox Easter
Zelenskyy shared on Friday that Ukraine had already proposed an Easter truce and would respond accordingly. The announcement follows the Kremlin's declaration of a ceasefire beginning at 1600 on 11th April and continuing until midnight on 12th April, aligning with the Orthodox Easter calendar observed in both nations.

This decision marked a shift in Russia's stance, as it had earlier rejected a similar proposal from Ukraine. Zelenskyy noted that the initial suggestion for a truce had been made through the United States, which has been acting as a mediator in efforts to resolve the conflict that has lasted for four years.

A Chance for Peace?
Despite the ceasefire announcement, Zelenskyy accused Putin of triggering an "Easter escalation" due to intensified aerial attacks during the Western Easter period. He emphasized that the temporary halt in fighting could serve as an opportunity for Russia to move toward a lasting peace.

According to Zelenskyy, people deserve an Easter without threats and with genuine progress toward peace. He added that Russia now has the chance to avoid resuming strikes after the holiday period.
If upheld, this ceasefire would mark the first significant pause in fighting since Russia's invasion in February 2022. A similar attempt last Easter, when Putin declared a 30-hour truce, failed as both sides accused each other of violations.