Russia and Ukraine declared an “Easter truce”

Russian President Vladimir Putin declared an “Easter truce” from 16:00 on April 11 until the end of the day on April 12, the Kremlin reported on April 9.

Putin instructed the Russian military to “stop hostilities in all directions,” but the troops should be prepared to “suppress possible provocations from the enemy, as well as any of his aggressive actions.”

“We assume that the Ukrainian side will follow the example of the Russian Federation,” the Kremlin said in a statement.

Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky previously made a proposal to declare a truce for Easter. Even on the afternoon of April 9, the Kremlin said that Putin had not yet made a final decision on a possible truce for Easter.

Update. Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky said in response to Putin’s decision that the Ukrainian Armed Forces would cease fire on Easter. “Ukraine has repeatedly stated that we are ready for retaliatory measures. This year we proposed a ceasefire during the Easter holidays and will act accordingly. People need an Easter without threats and a real movement towards peace, and Russia has a chance not to return to striking after Easter,” Zelensky said.

• In 2025, on Easter, Putin unilaterally announced a cessation of hostilities for a day and a half. Then the parties to the conflict accused each other of numerous violations, while the intensity of hostilities at that time decreased significantly.