Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky emphasized that Ukraine is ready for reciprocal steps in response to Russian leader Vladimir Putin’s announcement regarding the introduction of an “Easter ceasefire.” According to the Kremlin’s announcement, the ceasefire is set to be in effect from 4:00 PM on April 11 until the end of the day on April 12.
This is reported by Kyiv24
Ukraine’s Position on the Ceasefire
Zelensky reminded that Ukraine has repeatedly demonstrated its openness to such initiatives. He noted that the Ukrainian side had previously proposed to establish a ceasefire during the Easter holidays and plans to act accordingly. According to the head of state, citizens deserve an Easter free from threats and should have a chance for real progress toward peace. Zelensky also emphasized that Russia has the opportunity not to return to shelling after the holidays.
“Ukraine has repeatedly stated that we are ready for reciprocal steps. We proposed a ceasefire during the Easter holidays this year and will act accordingly. People need an Easter free from threats and real movement toward peace, and Russia has a chance not to return to strikes even after Easter”
Russia’s Official Position and Historical Context
On the evening of April 9, the Kremlin announced that Putin had instructed the Russian military to suspend active combat operations in all directions on the specified dates, while also ordering them to be ready to respond to possible provocations and aggression from the enemy.
It is worth recalling that at the end of March, Zelensky had already expressed Ukraine’s readiness for a festive ceasefire, which falls on April 12 for Orthodox Christians and Greek Catholics. The Ukrainian president also informed that the corresponding request had been conveyed to the United States, but it is unknown whether the American side will be able to relay this signal to Russia. Despite this, Ukraine’s proposal for a ceasefire remains relevant.
In 2025, Putin also announced a unilateral ceasefire on Easter for one and a half days. At that time, the conflicting parties accused each other of numerous violations, but during this period, the level of hostilities significantly decreased.